Bhimsen Thapa’s 251st birth anniversary celebrated

KATHMANDU: The 251st birth anniversary of Nepal’s national hero, Bhimsen Thapa, was commemorated on Friday with various events held at the historic Dharahara premises in Sundhara, Kathmandu.

A special tribute ceremony was organized where participants, including political leaders, party members, and representatives from various sectors, offered garlands and floral tributes to Thapa’s portrait, honoring his legacy and contributions to the nation.

Speaking at the event, attendees emphasized the need to introduce Bhimsen Thapa’s remarkable achievements during his premiership to the younger generation.

Organizers also announced plans to construct a statue of Bhimsen Thapa within the Dharahara premises by next year.

Known as the architect of the original Dharahara towers near Tundikhel’s Baghdurbar, Thapa had commissioned the construction of two parallel towers in 1825 BS. However, the devastating earthquake of 1830 BS completely destroyed the southern tower and partially damaged the northern one, which was later rebuilt.

That very structure faced repeated damage in the earthquakes of 1990 BS and was again reconstructed by Prime Minister Juddha Shumsher in 1992 BS.

Unfortunately, the iconic tower was severely damaged once more in the 2072 BS earthquake, leaving only its base.

Often referred to as the “Bhimsen Stambha” in honor of its visionary creator, the Dharahara stands as a testament to Bhimsen Thapa’s enduring legacy. Thapa served as the Prime Minister of Nepal from 1863 to 1894 BS, a remarkable 31-year tenure marked by administrative, economic, and diplomatic reforms.

Among his notable contributions were the abolition of inhumane practices such as the Kamara-Kamari system and forced acceptance of widowed sisters-in-law as wives. He also took a bold stance against exploitative practices like bethbegar (forced labor without pay), unnecessary feasts, and excessive religious donations, bringing significant social reforms.

As the Commander-in-Chief of the Nepal Army, Thapa initiated key military modernization efforts. With support from France, he introduced modern training, weaponry, uniforms, and logistical systems including the use of porters in warfare—efforts that laid the foundation for a stronger and more organized national defense force.