Journey to Becoming a Gurkha –
My Story

After 37 weeks of intense military, education and cultural awareness training, “Intake 25” of newly trained Gurkhas will join their pass out parade in Catterick on Wednesday 12th November.

Earlier this year we had the opportunity to visit Gamecock Barracks to find out more about the new Gurkha recruits, their training and how they adapt to life in the UK. We were privileged to meet Sig Santosh Rai who told us about his own experience.

Roots of a Dream

Born and raised in Tarahara, a small town in eastern Nepal between Itahari and Dharan, I grew up with a dream – to become a Gurkha. This ambition was inspired by my mother’s wish during pregnancy and fuelled by the legacy of my uncles and cousins who served in the Army.

The Journey to Selection

After completing school, I joined a training academy in Dharan. While enrolled in college, I dedicated myself to training for Gurkha selection, staying back at the hostel during weekends to push myself harder.

My first attempt at selection ended in disappointment. It was a difficult time, personally and emotionally. But I used that setback as motivation, and through renewed determination, I succeeded in my second attempt during the 2019/2020 intake. I will never forget hearing the selection officer’s words:

“Badhai chha, tapai Bharti hunu bhayeko chha” — Congratulations, you have been selected for the British Army.

Challenging Training and Enduring Bonds

Arriving in the UK was a moment of mixed emotions. The cold climate and new environment in Catterick posed fresh challenges. Nine months of demanding training taught me resilience, teamwork, and professionalism.

The bond with my numberis^*, forged through hardship and shared experiences, remains one of my most treasured memories.

^*an expression for the new recruits who train and forge friendships together.

Joining the Queen’s Gurkha Signals

After passing out, I joined the Queen’s Gurkha Signals during the COVID pandemic. Due to our record intake size, we completed our induction at Altcar Camp before moving on to trade training at Blandford. A year later, I became a fully qualified soldier.

Service, Deployment, and Growth

In 2022, I received my first posting to 250 Gurkha Signal Squadron. Supported by experienced colleagues and a strong chain of command, I have grown both professionally and personally. The Army has provided incredible opportunities – from deployments to Iceland, Latvia, Brunei, and Austria, to experiencing diverse cultures and strengthening the bonds of our community.

I am deeply proud to be part of the historic Gurkha legacy. Following in the footsteps of our forefathers, I look forward to serving with honour in the years ahead.

– Sig Santosh Rai, Queen’s Gurkha Signals