The
saying is that onece a kukri is out in a battle field, it has to taste
blood. Kukri is primarily a Gurkha close combat weapon. It is still used by
the modern Gurkha regiments. Kukri is kind of a backing weapon that is kept
along with the main weapon. Its shape symbolizes the trident of Lord Shiva.
The cutting action of a kukri is upward diagonal. The length is around 17".
The blade is 13" made of the best quality iron. The haft can be bone or
rosewood. Current day Kukries are smaller than the traditional ones.
The origin of the blade is yet unknown but its shape suggests that it is one
of the oldest evolved blades. Similar shapes were used by Greeks in Greek
sword of Kopis some 2500 years back. Some call it similar to Alexanderian
sword and some to old Japanese sword. Others trace it to Mallas of Nepal.
Whatever be the origin, it is today an out an out deadly Gurkha weapon. It
is used in religious ceremonies the same as in wars.
