Under the crisp Himalayan skies of Pokhara, a momentous tradition played out, one that has echoed through more than two centuries of unwavering loyalty, resilience, and honour. Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, stood before 274 young Nepali recruits, each of whom had triumphed over staggering odds to earn their place in the esteemed Brigade of Gurkhas. With pride in his voice, he reminded them of a simple yet powerful truth: “You are a soldier in the British Army, but you are a son of Nepal. Be proud of both.”
The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh were in Nepal on the fourth day of their official tour, celebrating the enduring bond between the UK and the Gurkhas, one forged in loyalty and battle. The attestation ceremony, held at the Gurkha base in Pokhara, marked a defining moment for these young warriors. After surviving one of the world’s most gruelling selection processes, where only two per cent of the 13,000 hopefuls succeeded, the recruits stood tall, saluting a portrait of King Charles and swearing their allegiance to the British Crown.
A Legacy of Courage
In his address, Prince Edward commended the recruits on their extraordinary achievement.
“Selection, I know, has been hard and the competition very intense, but you have met the very highest standards to serve as a Gurkha. I am impressed that of the 13,000 aspiring recruits, you have made it.”
These words carried weight, for the Brigade of Gurkhas is no ordinary regiment. Known for their legendary bravery, unwavering discipline, and loyalty, Gurkhas have served the British Crown for over 209 years. Now, this proud legacy becomes the responsibility of these newest recruits, who will soon be making their way to Catterick Garrison in North Yorkshire to begin their training.
A Proud but Emotional Farewell
The atmosphere was charged with emotion as families looked on, some having travelled for hours—one family journeying an exhausting 18 hours—just to witness this milestone. The Duke took the time to speak with the families, sharing in their pride and acknowledging the sacrifices made.
“You must be feeling very proud as well,” he told one family. “He’s done very well to do this.”
It was not just a day of goodbyes, but also one of recognition. Earlier in the ceremony, Edward and Sophie presented 38 Coronation Medals and two long service and good conduct medals to Gurkha staff, a nod to their dedication and service.
A Ceremony with a Modern Twist
As tradition blended seamlessly with the contemporary, the Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas added a unique flair to the day’s proceedings, playing two songs by Lady Gaga while the Duke and Duchess inspected the recruits. It was a lighthearted touch to an otherwise solemn and significant event.
Prayers from both Buddhist and Hindu traditions were offered before the final attestation oath, grounding the ceremony in cultural and spiritual significance.
The day ended with a powerful reminder, these young men may now wear the uniform of the British Army, but their hearts remain tethered to the land of their birth. They are Gurkhas, warriors of legend, and as they embark on this next chapter, they do so carrying both the honour of Nepal and the duty to the Crown.
