Prithvi Narayan Shah: Unification Campaign of Nepal

Introduction

Prithvi Narayan Shah, born on 27th Push, 1779 BS in Gorkha, was an eminent king who laid the foundation for modern Nepal through his visionary unification campaign. His leadership transformed Gorkha into a formidable state, enabling it to unify fragmented kingdoms and establish a strong, centralized Nepal. This article dives deep into the life, strategies, and legacy of Prithvi Narayan Shah, presenting a comprehensive account of his contributions to Nepal’s history.

Early Life and Rise to Power

Prithvi Narayan Shah was the son of Narabhupal Shah and belonged to the Shah dynasty, which had ruled Gorkha since 1616 BS, beginning with Drabya Shah. His early life was marked by political challenges, yet his determination and insight laid the groundwork for his historic unification campaign.

Strategies and Alliances

Friendship with Lamjung and Bhaktapur

Before initiating his military conquests, Prithvi Narayan Shah strategically signed treaties to neutralize potential threats.

• Treaty with Lamjung (1740 AD): Ensured mutual non-aggression and united defense against external enemies.
• Alliance with Bhaktapur: Established ties with Birnarsingh Malla, the son of Bhaktapur’s king, Ranajit Malla, which facilitated his movements in the Kathmandu Valley.

Major Conquests and Battles

Victory Over Nuwakot

Prithvi Narayan Shah recognized Nuwakot’s strategic importance as a trade route between Tibet and Kathmandu.

• First Attempt (1743 AD): Failed due to the superior weaponry of Jayaprakash Malla, king of Kathmandu.
• Second Attempt (1744 AD): A well-coordinated attack from two fronts led to the victory over Nuwakot and Belkot.

Embargo on Kathmandu Valley

To weaken the Malla rulers, Prithvi Narayan Shah imposed a trade embargo on the Kathmandu Valley. By capturing key trade routes and surrounding villages, including Dhulikhel, Banepa, and Panauti, he effectively isolated the valley.

Battle of Sihranchok Fort (1755 AD)

The Chaubise states united to attack Gorkha but were defeated by the Gorkhali army under Kalu Pandey. This victory boosted Gorkha’s morale and solidified its dominance.

Kirtipur: A Turning Point

Conquering Kirtipur was one of the most challenging tasks in the unification campaign.

• First Attempt (1757 AD): Gorkha suffered heavy losses, including the death of Kalu Pandey.
• Second Attempt (1766 AD): Led by Surpratap Shah, the Gorkhalis faced fierce resistance.
• Third Attempt (1767 AD): A surprise attack ensured victory, marking a critical step toward capturing Kathmandu.

Victory Over Kathmandu (1768 AD)

On Bhadau Shukla Chaturdashi (Indrajatra), Prithvi Narayan Shah’s forces launched a three-pronged attack on Kathmandu and successfully captured it. This marked the beginning of Gorkha's dominance over the valley.

Conquest of Lalitpur and Bhaktapur

• Lalitpur (Oct. 6, 1768): The Pradhans of Patan surrendered without much resistance.
• Bhaktapur (1769 AD): After capturing Kathmandu and Lalitpur, the Gorkha army defeated Ranajit Malla, uniting the three kingdoms of the valley.

Challenges During the Unification Campaign

Second Attack by Chaubise States

While Gorkha faced a united attack from the Chaubise states, Prithvi Narayan Shah’s military strategies and strong leadership ensured their defeat.

Battle with the Muslim Troop

The Gorkhalis successfully repelled an attack by Gurgin Khan’s Muslim troops, gaining valuable weapons and boosting morale.

Legacy and Governance

Prithvi Narayan Shah’s unification campaign not only consolidated Nepal but also laid the foundation for modern governance. His appointment of capable leaders like Ramkrishna Kunwar and Ranjit Kunwar ensured stability in newly conquered regions.

Key Governance Principles

• Advocated for a self-reliant economy by promoting local industries.
• Implemented policies to reduce dependency on foreign goods.
• Encouraged unity among diverse ethnic groups.

Key Takeaways from Prithvi Narayan Shah’s Leadership

1. Visionary Planning: His foresight in forming alliances and imposing economic blockades weakened enemies before military action.
2. Military Strategy: Emphasized discipline, surprise attacks, and strategic positioning.
3. Diplomatic Acumen: Leveraged treaties and alliances to neutralize threats.

Learn about Shah dynasty

Frequently Asked Question (FAQ's)

1. Who was Prithvi Narayan Shah?

Prithvi Narayan Shah was the son of King Narabhupal Shah. He was born on 27th Push, 1779 BS in Gorkha and is known as an eminent king who initiated the unification of Nepal.

2. What is the significance of Gorkha in Nepal's history?

Gorkha became a powerful and organized state after its establishment in 1616 BS under Drabya Shah, paving the way for Nepal's unification campaign.

3. What was the treaty between Gorkha and Lamjung?

In 1740 AD, Prithvi Narayan Shah signed a treaty of friendship with Lamjung, agreeing on non-aggression and mutual defense against external threats.

4. What were the main challenges faced during the unification campaign?

• Strong resistance from the Malla states in the Kathmandu Valley.

• Superior weapons and tactics of adversaries like Jayaprakash Malla.

• United opposition from the Chaubise states.

5. How did Prithvi Narayan Shah conquer Nuwakot?

After a failed attempt in 1743 AD, Gorkha soldiers led a successful attack on 25th September 1744 AD, capturing Nuwakot and Belkot.

6. What was the strategy to conquer the Kathmandu Valley?

Prithvi Narayan Shah imposed an embargo, cutting off supplies like salt, cotton, and food. This weakened the valley's economy and defenses, making it vulnerable to invasion.

7. What was the Battle of Sihranchok Fort?

In May 1755 AD, Gorkha troops, led by Kalu Pandey, defended Sihranchok fort against a united attack by Chaubise states and emerged victorious.

8. What treaties did Gorkha sign for trade?

In 1758 AD, Gorkha signed a treaty with Kathmandu, enabling both states to benefit from trade with Tibet.

9. How did Gorkha achieve victory over Kirtipur?

After two failed attempts in 1757 AD and 1821 BS, Gorkha finally captured Kirtipur on Chaitra 3, 1822 BS.

10. What were the key victories in the Kathmandu Valley?

• Kathmandu: Captured on Indrajatra in 1825 BS.

• Lalitpur: Surrendered on October 6th, 1768 AD.

• Bhaktapur: Captured on Kartik Shukla Dwadashi, 1826 BS.

11. Who were key allies and leaders in the unification campaign?

• Kalu Pandey: A prominent general who led critical battles.

• Ramkrishna Kunwar: Played a vital role in the Koshi region.

• Surpratap Shah: Commanded forces during the Kirtipur invasions.

12. What was the role of the Kunwar family in Nepal's governance?

The Kunwar family, including figures like Ranajit Kunwar and Balnarsingh Kunwar, played essential roles in governance and military leadership.

13. What happened after Nepal's unification?

Prithvi Narayan Shah's successors continued expanding and consolidating the nation. Figures like Balnarsingh Kunwar and his descendants served as ministers and military leaders.

14. Why is Prithvi Narayan Shah considered the founder of modern Nepal?

He united the fragmented states of Nepal, creating a single, centralized nation with strong governance and strategic diplomacy.

15. What are the legal reforms of Prithvi Narayan Shah?

King Prithvi Narayan, not only unified the country but also significantly reformed the country's legal and judicial systems. He abolished almost all earlier courts. He established many courts in most of the districts. He also established new courts at the capital.