Kathmandu. The 304th birth anniversary of Prithvi Narayan Shah is being observed across the country today. The birth anniversary of Shah, who was born in 1779 BS, is being marked across the country today by organizing various programmes.

Shah is honored by offering wreaths at the statue of Prithvi Narayan Shah in front of the western gate of the main administrative building, Singha Durbar, in memory of his contribution to the unification of the nation.

The Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) organized a tea reception on the occasion of Prithvi Jayanti today. The RPP has invited the Prime Minister, top leaders of various political parties, former Prime Ministers and various personalities to the programme. The day is celebrated every year in Gorkha, the birthplace of Shah.

On the occasion of Prithvi Jayanti, the Nepal Army has been paying homage to the builder by garlanding the life-size statue of the builder at the Army Headquarters premises every year. The then King Shah of Gorkha had unified the Bise and Chaubise kingdoms amidst various social, economic and geographical challenges with the enthusiastic support and participation of the people, Shah died in 1831 BS at the age of 52. At the age of 20, he ascended the throne and launched a unification campaign by defeating the then internal and external forces.

The International Diversity Day recognizes the contributions of our ancestors who made great efforts to unite the country and inspire the unity amidst diversity by reminding us of our shared history, culture and pride. This day reminds us that rising above personal interests and prioritizing national interest is the basis for building a strong and inclusive nation. This day has special significance to awaken the sense of dedication, service and responsibility of the younger generation towards the motherland.

Nepal has become one of the oldest independent nations in the world as the unification campaign of Shah had prepared the basis for keeping national independence and sovereignty intact. The Divyopadesh, which Shah had given during his reign that both the takers and the givers of bribes are enemies of the nation, are equally relevant even today in the context of reducing corruption and promoting good governance. Considering the geographical aspect, he described Nepal as a yam between two stones.