The Kothimora kukri is a presentation knife, given to retiring Gurkha officers as a token of respect by the members of the regiment. Kothimura kukri have a silver (or silver plated) scabbard often mounted with a representation of the regimental cap badge.
This Kothimura kukri was presented to an officer of the Queens’ Gurkha Engineers.
The 270mm hollow ground blade has a thick, ridged spine, measuring approximately 8mm at the shoulder and tapering to a hatchet point. The blade is razor sharp and in good condition with scratches along both sides probably caused by inappropriate cleaning.
The Cho at the base of the blade is believed to be a symbolic representation of a cows’ foot, a sacred animal to all Hindus.
The hardwood hilt has a brass bolster. The grip flares to a broad oval at the base allowing the user a very good grip. The flared oval pommel is finished with a brass cap with central raised lozenge through which the tang is peened. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The presentation scabbard is mounted with white metal (probably silver) over a velvet covered wooden body. The ornate silver panel at the top of the scabbard depicts the regimental badge of the Queens’ Gurkha Engineers. Below the regimental badge is a chain with a silver shield engraved with RE, denoting the Royal Engineers. A presentation plaque is engraved, “Presentation by Captain J. R. T.” The scabbard is in good condition.
This is a great Gurkha Kothimora kukri, presented to a member of the Queens’ Gurkha Engineers.
