Kathmandu, Jan 11: Today marks Prithvi Jayanti and the 303rd National Unity Day, commemorating the contributions of Prithvi Narayan Shah, the architect of Nepal’s unification. Nepalis are remembering his legacy today with various activities, including poetry recitation, organizing games, rallies, talk programs, among others.
How should we remember the nation-builder Prithvi Narayan? People pay homage by offering floral tributes at his statues and holding memorial events to honor his memory.
However, Nepal’s senior poets and writers have chosen a unique and creative way to remember him. Writers, poets, cine artists, lyricists have gathered at Chandragiri hills, a historical site associated with Prithvi Narayan, to recite their compositions before his statue and express their respect.
Historians recount that during his travels from his maternal home in Nuwakot, Prithvi Narayan Shah stopped at the area around the present-day Bhaleshwar Temple on Chandragiri Hill. From there, he admired the beauty of the Kathmandu Valley and envisioned integrating it, including Kirtipur, into the Gorkha kingdom.
As a tribute to his vision and efforts, a statue of Prithvi Narayan Shah was erected on this historic Chandragiri Hill. Every year on Poush 27, a memorial program is held there to honor his legacy.
On the occasion, eight senior poets and lyricists presented their composition in front of the statue of Prithvi Narayan Shah which were filled with love of nation, contribution of Shah and making Nepal a globally recognized independent nation. Poets Bishwobimohan Shrestha, SP Koirala, Rajendra Shalav, Dr Nawaraj Lamsal, Kishor Padahi, Prabha Bhattarai Acharya, Mani Lohani, Alisha Dhungana recited their composition.
