Prithvi Narayan Shah

Prithvi Narayan Shah (Nepali: श्री ५ बडामहाराजाधिराज पृथ्वीनारायण शाह देव, romanized: Shri Panch Badamaharajadhiraj Prithvi Narayan Shah Dev; 11 January 1723 – 11 January 1775) was the last king of the Gorkha Kingdom and the first monarch of the unified Kingdom of Nepal, also referred to as the Kingdom of Gorkha. He is credited with initiating the unification of Nepal and relocating the royal seat of power to Kathmandu. His reign marked the end of the medieval period and the beginning of the modern history of Nepal.

Prithvi Narayan Shah played a central role in the formation of modern Nepal through his campaigns of territorial consolidation. He is considered a prominent figure in Nepali history, and his efforts at political unification and national identity continue to be recognized in contemporary narratives.

Scholars have drawn comparisons between his historical role and that of George Washington in the United States, citing his vision and leadership within the context of 18th-century South Asia. Some interpretations highlight his efforts to mobilize public support and establish a foundation for a unified state. His legacy remains influential in Nepal's political and cultural discourse.