On the 27th of July, forty members and guests from The Royal Gurkha Rifles Regimental Association gathered at Cowdenknowes House in the Scottish Borders to celebrate 30 years of the youngest Gurkha Rifle Regiment. With most of those present having also served in the antecedent regiments, the 2nd, 6th, 7th and 10th Gurkha Rifles (GR).
We were graciously hosted by the owner of the house, Lady Caroline Dalmeny, with her partner, Captain Jules Irens, formerly of 6GR and now working in Nepal for the Foreign Office. Also involved in the excellent organization of the overnight event were Captain Tikaram Limbu, (10GR) and Honorary Lieutenant Menbahadur Gurung, (6GR). Major Sudan Dewan, (2GR) was in charge of entertainment and Major Khagendra Limbu, (7GR) looked after welfare and all other aspects associated with Gurkha Majors. But the detailed smooth running of the celebration was largely down to the large number of helpful ladies and our well-practised BBQ chefs, Binod and Govinda.
We were particularly lucky to have present bagpipers from both the First and Second Royal Gurkha Rifles, who are currently performers at the Edinburgh Tattoo, whose expertise was loudly applauded. Dancing took place to various Nepali tunes, traditional and modern. The sheer quantity and quality of the feast was staggering, along with a healthy variety of hot and cold beverages. Some departed late in the night whilst others who stayed in the sumptuous accommodation were further spoilt by a large, Scottish breakfast, skilfully prepared by Jules. Though the weather stayed fine, further strenuous activity on nearby hills was largely shunned in favour of a leisurely departure home to all corners of Scotland and beyond. ‘Haste ye back!’ as they say, in the land of bagpipes, kilts and overwhelming hospitality.
