KATHMANDU: The 303rd birth anniversary of Prithvi Narayan Shah, the unifier of Nepal, is being commemorated nationwide on Saturday with various programs and events.
Born on January 11, 1723, in Gorkha to King Narbhupal Shah and Queen Kaushalyawati, Prithvi Narayan Shah ascended the throne on April, 1743.
At the time, Nepal was divided into 52 separate kingdoms.
Prithvi Narayan Shah is credited with initiating Nepal’s unification, which expanded the nation’s borders from the Teesta River in the east to the Chepe River in the west during his reign. His successors later extended Nepal’s territory to Fort Kangra in the west.
His campaign began with the conquest of Nuwakot in 1745, and 25 years later, he captured the Kathmandu Valley in 1770.
This marked a turning point in his efforts to unify Nepal, as he subsequently annexed Chaudandi and Vijayapur in the east.
The birth anniversary of Prithvi Narayan Shah is being celebrated with various activities across the country, highlighting his role in fostering unity among people of all castes and languages.
A special program is being held at the statue dedicated to Shah, located in front of the west main gate of Singha Durbar. This site has become a focal point for annual celebrations on his birth anniversary.
In addition, the Rastriya Prajatantra Party is organizing a special gathering to honor the occasion.
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