The iconic ‘Bhojpure Khukuri’ is witnessing growing demand both domestically and internationally. However, the traditional craft of khukuri-making in Bhojpur is facing a serious crisis due to a lack of skilled blacksmiths, known locally as Kaaligadhs.
According to local artisan Hark Bahadur Bishwakarma, khukuris such as Bhojpure, Sirupate, Chitlangle, and Kothimoda are in particularly high demand. Yet, the supply is falling short due to the dwindling number of experienced craftsmen in the region.
Business owners report that despite strong demand in local, national, and international markets, production has slowed significantly. The core reason is the declining interest among younger generations to pursue this labor-intensive traditional occupation.
“The Bhojpure Khukuri has recently seen rising demand from within the country and abroad,” said Bishwakarma. “But due to the lack of skilled manpower in villages, we are unable to meet that demand. There’s been no proper transfer of skills to the younger generation.”
Artisan Dinesh Gajmer noted that khukuris produced in Bhojpur range in price from NPR 1,000 to 20,000 depending on size and design. While they frequently receive orders for a few hundred units from other districts, fulfilling larger orders remains a challenge.
He also mentioned that while there were more blacksmiths in the past, the number of professionals engaged in the trade is decreasing steadily. The hard physical labor involved, difficulty sourcing raw materials, and lack of commercial incentives have all contributed to the profession’s decline.
The situation has been worsened by the increasing trend of youth migrating abroad. As a result, many traditional blacksmith workshops in villages have shut down, leading not only to a drop in khukuri production but also a shortage of agricultural tools essential for farming.
