The Gurkhas - Fiercest Soldiers in Modern History - DOCUMENTARY

Kings and Generals16 minutes read

Bishnu Shrestha, a Gurkha, displayed exceptional bravery by thwarting a train robbery in West Bengal, showcasing the elite soldiers' fearless and disciplined nature. Gurkhas, known for their proficiency in close-quarters combat with the kukri knife, have a rich history of heroism and gallant actions in various global conflicts.

Insights

  • Bishnu Shrestha's heroic actions in thwarting a train robbery exemplify the Gurkhas' reputation for fearlessness and combat prowess, showcasing their exceptional skills in close-quarters combat.
  • The history of the Gurkhas, from their origins in the Kingdom of Gorkha to their valiant acts in wars like the Anglo-Nepalese conflict, highlights their enduring legacy of bravery, resilience, and unwavering loyalty, shaping their reputation as elite soldiers with a rich history of service and sacrifice.

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Recent questions

  • Who are the Gurkhas?

    Elite Nepalese soldiers known for bravery and discipline.

  • What is the selection process for Gurkhas?

    Rigorous physical training and tough selection criteria.

  • What is the history of the Gurkhas?

    Originated from the Kingdom of Gorkha, known for bravery.

  • What are some notable Gurkha achievements?

    Acts of heroism in various conflicts and wars.

  • How are Gurkhas perceived in Nepal and the UK?

    Revered for fearlessness, faced with challenges in the UK.

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Summary

00:00

Gurkhas: Elite Soldiers of Nepal

  • Bishnu Shrestha, a 35-year-old Gurkha, thwarted a train robbery in West Bengal by single-handedly killing three gangsters and injuring eight more.
  • Gurkhas are elite soldiers from Nepal, known for their fearless and disciplined nature, with a history of serving in various global military forces.
  • Gurkhas are drawn from diverse ethnic backgrounds in Nepal, fluent in English and the national language, and are known for their expertise in close-quarters combat with the kukri knife.
  • Prospective Gurkhas undergo intense physical training, including benchmarks like 75 bench jumps in a minute, 70 sit-ups in two minutes, and running three miles with 55 pounds of rocks in under an hour.
  • Only 200 out of 28,000 Nepalese men qualify annually for the British Army's Brigade of Gurkhas, ensuring only the toughest are selected.
  • Gurkha history is filled with tales of heroism, like Lachhiman Gurung and Tul Bahadur Pun's remarkable feats during WWII.
  • Acting Sergeant Dipprasad Pun displayed exceptional bravery in Afghanistan, fending off 30 Taliban fighters single-handedly and receiving the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross.
  • The Gurkhas originated from the Kingdom of Gorkha, unified by Prithvi Narayan Shah, who humbled the British Empire and unified Nepal.
  • The Anglo-Nepalese War of 1814-1816 saw the Gorkhas resisting the British East India Company's massive army, displaying gallant resistance and earning respect for their honorable conduct in battle.
  • Gorkha General Bhakti Thapa's valiant actions at the Battle of Deuthal exemplified the Gurkhas' fearless and noble fighting spirit, despite facing overwhelming odds.

12:52

Gurkhas: Legacy of Fearless Nepalese Soldiers

  • The Treaty of Sugauli in 1816 marked the end of the Anglo-Nepalese war, forcing the Gorkha Kingdom to cede a quarter of its territory to the East India Company, shaping present-day Nepal's borders.
  • Despite losing the war, Nepal maintained its independence, but had to allow British recruiters to enlist Nepalese warriors into the British Army as part of the peace terms.
  • The Brigade of Gurkhas was formed, signifying a shift from enemies to comrades-in-arms between the Gurkhas and the British.
  • Gurkha veterans faced unequal treatment by the British government, receiving lower military pensions and encountering barriers to immigrate to the UK.
  • Gurkhas served with distinction in various conflicts, including World War I and II, earning numerous gallantry awards and showcasing exceptional bravery.
  • Despite controversies and criticisms in Nepal, the Gurkhas are revered for their fearlessness and toughness, with young Nepalese men continuing to enlist in Gurkha brigades to uphold their legacy as formidable soldiers.
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