Photograph of Nusseree Battalion (later 1st Gurkha Rifles), by Felice Beato, 1857 (c).
The Nusseree Battalion was raised in 1815. Although it went through several name changes in the years up to 1891, when it was designated the 1st Gurkha (Rifle) Regiment, it had a proud service record that included the Indian Mutiny (1857-59). This is reflected in the regimental motto ‘Kafar Hunu Bhanda Marnu Ramro’ (Better to die than live like a coward). The British officer depicted is Commandant Alexander Bagot (1822-74).