A Gurkha Hero Turns 102: The Story of Chandra Bahadur Sunwar

At his modest home, surrounded by family, neighbours, and well-wishers, World War II veteran Chandra Bahadur Sunwar celebrated a special milestone – his 102nd birthday. Welfare Officer Jang told us about the visit.

“The AWC Bagmati team from the Gurkha Welfare Trust also joined the celebration to honour this brave Gurkha hero. Although Chandra is completely blind and has severely limited hearing, I was able to have a conversation with him about his experience during the war. It was deeply moving to hear him recall his time in the Army.

Chandra joined the British Indian Army in 1941 when he was just 18 years old. After completing tough military training, he was posted to the 10th Gurkha Rifles, at a time when World War II was spreading across the world. Soon after, he was sent by ship to Italy, where he fought against German and Italian forces alongside the Allied troops. He shared memories of how difficult the war was. Soldiers were given only 12 packets of biscuits for three days, and he saw many of his friends lose their lives in battle.

As a front-line soldier, he was once shot on the boot by enemy fire; miraculously, he escaped without injury. Even after so many years, Mr. Sunwar clearly remembers military terms like marching, harbouring, rifle, ambush, booby-traps and many more. After the war ended, his regiment returned to India. He served for 10 years and was discharged in 1951, but sadly, he did not receive a pension.”

The Gurkha Welfare Trust has been supporting him with financial help and medical care, making sure his sacrifices are never forgotten. Today, Chandra Bahadur Sunwar is a living example of courage, strength, and the proud Gurkha spirit. His story continues to inspire all of us, and we are proud to celebrate the life of this true legend.