Nepal's Mighty Gurkhas | 101 East

Al Jazeera English2 minutes read

The UK recruits Gurkha fighters from Nepal through a rigorous selection process, offering successful candidates a chance to become elite soldiers and gain British passports. Kemal, from a struggling family, sees joining the Gurkhas as an opportunity to change their lives, going through intense training and medical tests to secure his spot in the prestigious Gurkha Brigade.

Insights

  • Joining the Gurkhas involves a rigorous 10-day selection process in Nepal, with only a select few candidates making it through, offering a career as elite soldiers and British passports for successful individuals and their families.
  • The story of Kemal and Rohit highlights the intense competition and personal sacrifices involved in pursuing a life-changing opportunity to join the Gurkhas, showcasing the challenges and uncertainties faced by aspiring candidates.

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Recent questions

  • What is the selection process for Gurkhas?

    Candidates face a grueling 10-day selection process in Nepal.

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Summary

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Elite Gurkha Warriors: A Life-Changing Journey

  • The search for the world's fiercest warriors, descendants of Nepal's legendary Gurkha fighters, is ongoing in the Himalayan foothills.
  • The UK has enlisted Gurkhas for over 200 years, with thousands of young Nepali men competing to join this elite unit.
  • To join the Gurkhas, candidates face a grueling 10-day selection process in Nepal, with only a few making it through.
  • The competition offers a career as an elite soldier and British passports for successful candidates and their families.
  • Kemal, from a struggling family, sees joining the British Army as his chance to change their lives.
  • Kemal and his friend Rohit have trained for years to join the Gurkhas, facing intense competition and pressure.
  • Medical tests prove crucial, with some candidates failing due to hidden illnesses or injuries.
  • Kemal and Rohit face uncertainty after medical tests, with Kemal eventually passing and Rohit failing.
  • Successful candidates embark on a life-changing journey to the UK, becoming part of the prestigious Gurkha Brigade.
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