Tributes paid to nation's unifier on his 304th birth anniversary
KATHMANDU, JANUARY 11
The 304th birth anniversary of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the architect of modern Nepal, is being observed across the country today as Prithvi Jayanti and National Unity Day.
Wreaths were laid at Shah's statue at Singha Durbar, while special programmes are being held in Gorkha, his birthplace. Marking the occasion, the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) hosted a tea reception, inviting the Prime Minister, senior political leaders, former prime ministers and other dignitaries.
Born in Gorkha in 1779 BS, Shah ascended the throne at 20 and led the unification campaign that laid the foundation for Nepal's independence and sovereignty. He passed away in 1831 BS at the age of 52. His teachings, including Nepal's metaphor as a "yam between two rocks," continue to be cited in discussions on governance, unity and national interest.