Bhojpure Khukuri, the national weapon of Nepal, crafted in the eastern hilly district of Bhojpur, is renowned both nationally and internationally. However, this centuries-old craft is now facing existential challenges due to a severe shortage of skilled artisans and raw materials.
According to Ghanashyam Bishwakarma, a local bladesmith and owner of a khukuri workshop, the mass exodus of youth seeking employment and education abroad has significantly worsened the situation. Local entrepreneurs told state-owned news agency RSS that essential raw materials like coal and sal wood are becoming increasingly scarce. “The number of workshops with heat-treating furnaces has declined sharply in the district,” Bishwokarma noted.
Once a thriving hub for khukuri production, areas such as Kot, Dalgaon, Gogane, Khawa, Khairang, Taksar, Bokhim, Danwa, Timma, Dingla, Deurali, and Jarayotar are now struggling to keep the tradition alive.
Dinesh Gajmer, proprietor of Ranjita Khukuri Udhyog, highlighted the growing difficulty in finding skilled artisans despite rising demand. “Those available are not very interested due to poor wages,” he added.
Bhojpure khukuris are not only prized as weapons but also cherished as gifts and decorative items. The district produces a variety of khukuris, including sirupate, banspate, chitlange, kothimuda, panwala, dharkhole, and budune.
In local markets, khukuris are sold for Rs 800 to Rs 1,800, with significantly higher prices in cities like Dharan, Udayapur, Sankhuwasabha, and Kathmandu.
With hopes of preserving this traditional craft, local entrepreneurs are urging the government to step in and support the struggling industry.
RSS
