Questions About The Engraving And Designs on the Chitlangi Khukuri

Drdan

Drdan

Joined
Dec 24, 2003
Messages
1,390
Are the markings just below the upper spine, which run for several inches, hammered into the steel, or are they the result of engraving? Does the kami making the blade perform any engraving, or is that task given to another specialised kami? I'd like to get the buttcap on mine fully engraved, and have a copper or silver keeper soldered in place. Who does all the non ferrous metal work, and the engraving? Lastly, are there traditional options as far as motifs for the work, on the Chitlani we see on the website?

Your responses are really appreciated!

Dan :)

"Love God and do what you want." Saint Augustine
 
Dan,
If you are referring to the sword of shiva it is hammered in. The kamis use a chisel to pound these things into the steel. Have seen this done on video. Neat to watch.:)
 
Originally posted by hoghead
Dan,
If you are referring to the sword of shiva it is hammered in. The kamis use a chisel to pound these things into the steel. Have seen this done on video. Neat to watch.:)
Click to expand...

Thanks for definitively answering the question. The design is very attractive, and gives a very dramatic look to the blade... I would enjoy seeing the BirGorkha video!
 
Dan,
The video is actually from the now defunct Gurkha House. Wish we had one from BirGorkha. It shows a kami making a khuk in Lalits shop.
 
Originally posted by hoghead
Dan,
The video is actually from the now defunct Gurkha House. Wish we had one from BirGorkha. It shows a kami making a khuk in Lalits shop.
Click to expand...

Too bad, Eric; :( it would be great if the former owner could be located, and permission to copy and distribute the films given. Perhaps if a forumite visits BirGorkha in the near future, one can be made. The entire process, from finding the truck springs, selecting the wood, forging the steel, mounting the handle, finishing the blade, making the sabbard, wood carving, engraving, stamping the kami's signature, etc. up to puja ceremony and packing for shipment.

The film can generate $ for all those featured in the films too! :)
 
I feel a video would be a tremendoulsy educational for us khukuri buffus, and it would be good P.R. for Himalayan Imports as well. It could even be done by a local video shop. If anyone has a PAL version of the Gurkha House video, and wants to exchange it for some $ (to buy another khukuri, of course), please e-mail me. Thanks, Roger for the heads up -- ininvited visitors to BirGorkha be forewarned...
 
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