On 31 July 2025, the Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment (QOGLR) said not “farewell”, but “see you around” to Shiva Chandra Niraula MBE, our spiritual leader for over 40 years. This incredibly special man has been a cornerstone of this regiment’s moral component since the days of the 10th Princess Mary’s Own Gurkha Rifles. He has been there for the attestation of all currently serving Gurkhas in QOGLR, and more before that; he is also the 5th generation Pandit Ji in his family who have all served in the Brigade of Gurkhas. He has witnessed much change over these decades, both material and cultural, in both the Gurkha community, and that of the wider UKTAP community within the regiment.
Pandit Ji leaves behind a legacy that has affected every single officer and soldier in the regiment, and thus it makes sense to say that his influence on the behaviours and culture here is unparalleled. His profound philosophies, spirituality, welfare support and key to all throughout – humour, has enabled our service personnel to feel spiritually at home and with family.
We are honoured to relay Pandit Ji’s heartfelt message. “Today (31 July 2025) was my last working day with the Battalion and the Brigade of Gurkhas. I wish to thank you most sincerely for the kind and dignified farewell you and the Regiment arranged. To stand there with four generations of my family, and to see five generations of our family’s contribution to the British Armed Forces recognised, was humbling in the truest sense. The grace and thoughtfulness of the occasion will remain with us always.
Looking back on 42 years of service, I feel an immense pride. It has been my privilege to work with thousands of soldiers, from every part of the British Army, and to have done so under the proud banner of the Brigade of Gurkhas. The Gurkha spirit, loyalty, resilience, and quiet courage, has shaped every step of this journey. At the same time, the values of the wider British Armed Forces, service before self, unity in diversity, and a sense of duty to something greater than ourselves that has always been my compass.
The Regiment has been my home, the Brigade my family, and the British Army a constant source of pride. Though my formal duties now come to a close, my bond with the Regiment, the Brigade, and the wider Forces remains unbroken.
Please extend my gratitude to all those who helped make the farewell so memorable. Their kindness transformed a formal event into a lasting family memory, a reminder of the bonds that outlive any posting.
I wish QOGLR every success in its future endeavours, and the Brigade of Gurkhas continued honour as it carries its proud reputation across the world. The British Armed Forces remain a beacon of service, and I am proud to have played my part in its long and distinguished story, a story I will always remain connected to. With deep respect and gratitude.”
