KATHMANDU, JANUARY 11
Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari asserted that National Unity Day and Prithvi Jayanti further strengthen the spirit of patriotism and reinforce social harmony, tolerance, and national unity.
In a message shared on social media on Sunday, former President Bhandari extended her best wishes to all Nepalis on the occasion of National Unity Day and the 304th birth anniversary of Prithvi Narayan Shah, the monarch who founded modern Nepal by unifying numerous principalities despite social, geographical, and economic adversities.
Bhandari expressed hope that the occasion would inspire all citizens to work towards safeguarding national dignity, independence, and sovereignty, and to strive for prosperity. "It is a glorious chapter of our history that the modern nation of Nepal was formed through the unification of small principalities that were once plagued by conflict, strife, and instability, and thus far removed from development," she stated.
She emphasized the need to internalize the historical truth that Nepal's sovereign and independent existence was preserved due to the farsighted leadership of Prithvi Narayan Shah, who, she noted, led the unification campaign by seeking public opinion and making it a people-centered national movement.
The former head of state also acknowledged that the sacrifices and dedication of Nepal's brave ancestors contributed significantly to safeguarding the nation's independent and sovereign status. Bhandari argued that Nepal's transformation into a sovereign, independent, democratic, and republican state stands firmly on the foundation laid by the historic unification.
She encouraged all citizens to take pride in the nation's sacred land, history, and culture, and to remain grateful to the ancestors who made such achievements possible.
According to her, if the present generation draws guidance from the positive lessons of history, it will reflect the identity of a truly civilized society.
The former President further noted that the Divya Upadesh (divine teachings) of Prithvi Narayan Shah remain equally relevant today, particularly in the context of fostering a self-reliant national economy and maintaining a balanced foreign policy.
Today marks the 304th birth anniversary of the nation-builder Prithvi Narayan Shah, as well as National Unity Day 2082 BS, which is being observed across the country through various programs and events.
(With inputs from Rastriya Samchar Samiti)