Kathmandu, Jan 11: The 303rd birth anniversary of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the architect of Nepal's national unification, is being celebrated across the country today with various programs and events.

Born on January 7, 1723, in the Gorkha Palace as the eldest child of King Nara Bhupal Shah and Queen Kaushalyawati, Prithvi Narayan Shah ascended the throne of the Gorkha Kingdom on April 3, 1743. He is credited with initiating the unification of Nepal and relocating the royal seat of power from Gorkha to Kathmandu.

Before unification, Nepal was fragmented into 52 principalities. Under his leadership, the kingdom expanded its borders from the Tista River in the east to the Chepe River in the west. After his death, his successors extended Nepal’s western boundaries further to Kangada.

Prithvi Narayan Shah’s military campaigns began with the conquest of Nuwakot in 1744, followed by the unification of the Kathmandu Valley in 1769. At that time, the valley was known as the Nepal Valley. Gradually, he annexed Chaudand, Bijayapur, and other eastern principalities, solidifying the foundation of a unified Nepal. He passed away in January 1775.

King Prithvi Narayan Shah is celebrated for fostering unity among diverse castes and communities during his unification campaign. On the occasion of his 303rd birth anniversary, a special program is being held at the site of his statue near the West Gate of Singha Durbar in the federal capital.

This annual event pays tribute to the visionary king who laid the groundwork for a unified and independent Nepal.