Are There Any Female Gurkhas? Breaking Gender Barriers In The Legendary Brigade

As of 2020, a historic change took place within the Gurkha recruitment process by allowing women to join their ranks. The selection criteria for female candidates closely mirror those for their male counterparts. Aspiring female Gurkhas must successfully navigate rigorous physical tests, one of which involves an arduous 3.1-mile (5km) uphill run while carrying a challenging load of 55 pounds (25kg) of sand, traditionally transported in a wicker basket. This significant policy shift opened up new opportunities for women to serve in this esteemed military unit, marking a noteworthy milestone in the Gurkhas’ history.

Are Gurkhas Asians? Gurkhas, originally hailing from Nepal, are an integral part of Asian heritage. Known for their unwavering courage and unwavering loyalty, Gurkhas have a deep historical connection to Southeast Asia. They were initially recruited as elite soldiers by the British Army and stationed in Singapore. This unique historical background has established Gurkhas as an iconic Asian military force, celebrated for their exceptional valor and dedication.

In 2008, actress Joanna Lumley, whose father served in the 6th Gurkha Rifles, emerged as a prominent advocate for the rights of Gurkha veterans who had served in the British Army before 1997. She took on a prominent role as the public spokesperson for the campaign, which aimed to secure the right for all Gurkha veterans to settle in Britain. Joanna Lumley’s personal connection to the Gurkhas, through her father’s service, lent considerable weight to her cause. Her impassioned and widely publicized campaign ultimately achieved a significant victory in granting these veterans the opportunity to make Britain their home.