Warrior Monk - Gurkha to SAS Hero - Krish Thapa Tells His Story

Added: May 1, 2024

In this podcast episode, Krish Thapa, a warrior monk from Nepal, shares how he grew up in the Himalayas with a deep connection to nature and spirituality. He comes from a large family where traditional roles are followed, with men providing and protecting while women take care of the household. Thapa's journey to becoming a Gurkha was inspired by his grandfather and uncle, who were Gurkhas, and his parents' dream for him to follow in their footsteps.

Key takeaways

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The Gurkha way of life emphasizes discipline, dedication, and devotion, showcasing the importance of serving a higher purpose and upholding cultural values.

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Thapa's perspective on gender roles highlights the importance of balance and mutual respect between men and women, recognizing the unique strengths each gender brings to society.

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Experiencing the sacrifice of a fellow soldier profoundly impacted Thapa, teaching him the value of human life and the significance of selflessness and sacrifice in the face of danger.

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Thapa's military service and experiences have led him to prioritize spiritual and emotional well-being, emphasizing the importance of connecting with one's inner self and finding a deeper purpose in life.

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Through his spiritual journey and service, Thapa has found true happiness and inner peace by helping others, particularly veterans struggling with PTSD and mental health issues.

The Gurkha Way of Life

The Gurkhas, elite soldiers from Nepal, have a long history of serving in the British Army. Thapa emphasizes the importance of discipline, dedication, and devotion in the Gurkha lifestyle. He believes in serving a higher purpose beyond oneself and upholding the values and traditions of his culture. He also maintains a deep spiritual connection to nature and his ancestors, guiding him in both times of peace and in the battlefield.

Harmonious Balance Between Genders

Thapa's perspective on masculinity and femininity is rooted in balance and mutual respect between men and women. He sees women as the center of the universe and believes in the harmonious relationship between genders. He emphasizes the importance of respecting and honoring women and understanding the unique strengths each gender brings.

Adapting to a New Environment

After passing the selection process, Thapa flew to the UK to begin his training as a Gurkha. He faced challenges such as adapting to a new culture, language barriers, and unfamiliar food. Despite these obstacles, he was determined to succeed and worked hard to integrate into his new environment.

Gratitude for Sacrifices Made

Thapa reflects on the sacrifices his parents made for him to achieve his dream of becoming a Gurkha. He emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and understanding towards his parents and the resilience he developed in overcoming challenges and adapting to a new way of life.

The Power of Sacrifice

A pivotal moment in Thapa's career was when a fellow soldier sacrificed his life to save him during a mission. This experience taught him the value of human life and the importance of selflessness and sacrifice in the face of danger. He emphasizes the significance of having a strong sense of purpose and devotion in challenging situations.

Thapa's Dedication to the SAS

Thapa's involvement in the 22 SAS, a special forces unit within the British Army, was a result of his unwavering dedication and commitment to serving his country and comrades. He credits his success in passing the SAS selection to his character and mental strength in high-pressure environments.

The Emotional Toll of Combat

Thapa shares his perspective on the impact of combat experiences on soldiers and the challenges they face when dealing with loss and trauma. He acknowledges the emotional toll of losing a fellow soldier in battle and the profound effect it had on his outlook on life. He emphasizes the need for soldiers to find a sense of purpose and meaning in their service to cope with the hardships of war.

Thapa's Resilience and Camaraderie in the Military

Despite the hardships and sacrifices he endured during his military career, Thapa maintains a sense of resilience and composure. He attributes his ability to stay grounded and focused to the strong bonds he formed with his colleagues and mentors in the army. He values the camaraderie and support he received, which helped him navigate through difficult times and maintain his sense of purpose.

Embracing Spiritual Growth Through Military Experience

Thapa's military background has shaped his perspective on life, leading him to prioritize spiritual and emotional well-being. He highlights the significance of connecting with one's inner self and finding a deeper purpose in life. His experiences in the military have taught him the value of gratitude and the importance of expressing emotions and seeking support from others.

Thapa's Spiritual Journey and Service

Thapa's biggest achievement is not just climbing Everest but understanding the true essence of life and finding inner peace. He believes that true happiness comes from within and is achieved through self-awareness and serving others. His spiritual journey has led him to help veterans struggling with PTSD and mental health issues, as he understands the challenges they face after leaving the military.

Thapa's Mindful Approach to Life

Thapa's approach to life is centered around mindfulness, meditation, and intention. He encourages individuals to control their breath, thoughts, and actions to achieve mental clarity and emotional balance. His advice for those facing struggles is to focus on their breath, meditate, and set positive intentions for their lives. He believes that by cultivating a mindful mindset and taking purposeful actions, individuals can overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

Warrior Monk: Sharing Wisdom and Inspiration

Thapa's social media presence as Warrior Monk reflects his commitment to sharing his wisdom and experiences with a wider audience. Through platforms like Instagram and Facebook, Thapa connects with people seeking guidance on spirituality, mental health, and personal growth.

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