LEGENDS OF GURKHA KHUKURIS

The Sirupate (Sanglo) Khukuri

Introduction: ‘SiruPate’ is a Nepali vocabulary derived from a leaf’s name found in the hilly areas of Nepal. “Siru” is the name of the plant and “Paat” means leaf. The shape of Siru’s leaf which is slim, thin and light which influences the shape and features of the SiruPate Khukuri. This is the  most famous Khukuri in Nepal for a Nepali citizen. In fact now it’s a domestic name in every home when it’s a matter of khukuri. The background attached to this khukuri revolves around a common Nepali Farmer from a remote hilly village, his family, and his day-to-day activities to survive.  

This khukuri is made similar to that leaf pattern as described above. It’s a must have for all locals and villagers specially for farmers. The farmers use it for almost any activities that require a sharp edge and a strong surface. This special, strong and sometimes forceful bond between the master and the blade has come a very long way that still continues in the rural even in this 21st century.The kukri knife not only helps a farmer do his daily profession but also safeguards him from imminent threats and danger from wild animals while in woods. His khukuri becomes like a guarding angel which he believes will protect him physically, mentally, and religiously. It is also popular in marriage ceremonies and various religious functions and festivals celebrated by Nepalese. It’s just not a knife to carry but an honor to carry on.

History: The origin, history, and facts are very sketchy. The saddest part in khukuri is it was hardly documented. It was only in early 19th century, much late, the British started documenting when they felt the knife. The Sirupate khukuri version of king Drabya Shah who ruled Nepal in mid 1500’s suggests that Sirupate was already quite popular in those days. This leads us to the fact that it is a very old khukuri that probably originated much earlier than we ever thought. However, the new version or modern ones was made mostly in Dharan, Eastern Nepal and designed in the late 1970’s – early 1980’s highly inspired by the historic Sirupate khukuri. The maker modernized it as per the new time, taste, demand and conditions.

Specification: The knife is very functional and mobile. A Sirupate is a slimmer and lighter compared to other khukuris yet very effective. The handle comes in a basic rat-tail tang handle with wooden grip. The typical handle provides a strong and secure grip. Also the shape compliments the blade very well which gives an attractive look to the khukuri. Its basic yet fine, simple yet style of its own. It is made of wood from inside and covered by leather from outside. A belt carry frog and metal tip are fitted to the sheath. However the old version did not have it. Typical Sirupate comes with two small utility backup knives Karda (small knife) and Chakmak (sharpener).