The Most Famous Gurkha, Ranked

Choose the Gurkha you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jun 13, 2024 07:44
Throughout history, Gurkhas have been revered for their bravery and skill in battle, making significant contributions across various conflicts worldwide. Understanding who stands out among these distinguished fighters helps celebrate their individual achievements and the collective legacy they uphold. By ranking the most esteemed Gurkhas, we gain insight into the qualities that define the greatest among them. This ranking process not only honors these warriors' historical significance but also allows the public to engage directly by voting for whom they believe merits recognition. Each vote is a tribute to the legendary courage of the Gurkhas and an opportunity for voters to learn more about their inspiring stories. We encourage everyone to participate and help shape this living tribute by casting a vote for their favorite Gurkha.

Who Is the Most Famous Gurkha?

  1. 1
    56
    points

    Lachhiman Gurung

    A Gurkha soldier who was awarded the Victoria Cross during World War II for his bravery in Burma.
    • Award: Victoria Cross
    • Year Awarded: 1945
  2. 2
    27
    points

    Gaje Ghale

    Recipient of the Victoria Cross for his actions during World War II in the face of the enemy, showcasing exceptional bravery.
    • Award: Victoria Cross
    • Year Awarded: 1943
  3. 3
    21
    points

    Dipprasad Pun

    Awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross for his actions in Afghanistan, where he single-handedly fought off an insurgent attack.
    • Award: Conspicuous Gallantry Cross
    • Year Awarded: 2010
  4. 4
    8
    points

    Ganju Lama

    Recipient of the Victoria Cross for his actions during World War II, known for his exceptional bravery in battle.
    • Award: Victoria Cross
    • Year Awarded: 1944
  5. 5
    7
    points

    Netrabahadur Thapa

    Awarded the Victoria Cross for his leadership and valour during World War II in operations against the enemy.
    • Award: Victoria Cross
    • Year Awarded: 1944
  6. 6
    7
    points

    Agansing Rai

    Awarded the Victoria Cross for his leadership and bravery during World War II in the face of the enemy.
    • Award: Victoria Cross
    • Year Awarded: 1944
  7. 7
    6
    points

    Tul Bahadur Pun

    His actions during World War II earned him the Victoria Cross, recognized for his bravery under fire.
    • Award: Victoria Cross
    • Year Awarded: 1944
  8. 8
    1
    points

    Rambahadur Limbu

    Awarded the Victoria Cross during the Indonesia-Malaysia confrontation, he is one of the most recent Gurkha recipients of the VC.
    • Award: Victoria Cross
    • Year Awarded: 1965
  9. 9
    0
    points

    Bhanbhagta Gurung

    Awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions during World War II, he is known for his heroic assault on a Japanese position.
    • Award: Victoria Cross
    • Year Awarded: 1945
  10. 10
    0
    points

    Kulbir Thapa

    First Gurkha recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration awarded for valour in the face of the enemy to members of the armed forces of various Commonwealth countries, and previously, the British Empire.
    • Award: Victoria Cross
    • Year Awarded: 1915

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous Gurkha. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Gurkha is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2060 views
  • 133 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Gurkha once every 24 hours. The rank of each Gurkha is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Famous Gurkha

Lachhiman Gurung
Rank #1 for the most famous Gurkha: Lachhiman Gurung (Source)
The Gurkhas are soldiers from Nepal known for their bravery and skill in battle. They have a long history of serving in various armies, most notably the British Army. Their reputation for courage and loyalty is legendary. The name "Gurkha" comes from the hill town of Gorkha in Nepal, where the first of these soldiers hailed.

The British first encountered the Gurkhas during the Anglo-Nepalese War from 1814 to 1816. Despite being outnumbered, the Gurkhas fought fiercely, earning the respect of their adversaries. After the war, the British were so impressed by their fighting abilities that they began to recruit them into their own army. This marked the beginning of a long and storied relationship between the Gurkhas and the British.

Gurkhas are known for their distinctive curved knives called kukris. These weapons are not just for show; they are symbols of their martial prowess. The kukri has become an emblem of the Gurkhas' readiness to fight and their skill in close combat.

Throughout history, Gurkhas have served in many conflicts. They fought in both World Wars, where they gained fame for their bravery and effectiveness. In World War I, Gurkha regiments were involved in key battles in France and the Middle East. In World War II, they fought in Europe, North Africa, and Asia. Their contributions were significant and earned them numerous awards for valor.

The Gurkhas' role did not end with the World Wars. They have since served in various conflicts around the world, including the Falklands War, the Gulf War, and operations in Afghanistan. Their adaptability and resilience have made them an invaluable part of the forces they serve in.

Gurkhas undergo rigorous training. The selection process is tough, with only a small percentage of applicants making it through. This ensures that only the best and most dedicated are chosen. Their training includes physical fitness, combat skills, and discipline. This preparation makes them some of the most formidable soldiers in the world.

The bond between the Gurkhas and the British Army remains strong. Gurkhas have their own regiments within the British Army, and they are celebrated for their unique heritage and contributions. They also serve in the Indian Army and the Nepalese Army, where they continue to uphold their tradition of excellence.

The legacy of the Gurkhas is not just about their military achievements. They are also known for their loyalty and sense of duty. These qualities have earned them respect and admiration from their comrades and commanders alike.

In summary, the Gurkhas are a unique group of soldiers with a rich history of bravery and skill. Their contributions to various conflicts have cemented their place as some of the most respected and feared warriors in the world. The kukri, their distinctive weapon, stands as a symbol of their readiness to fight and their martial prowess. The Gurkhas' legacy continues to inspire and their story remains a testament to their enduring spirit and dedication.

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