Prithvi Narayan Shah (1723-1775) was a pivotal figure in Nepalese history, known for founding the modern nation of Nepal through his conquests and unification efforts. As the King of Gorkha, a small principality in central Nepal, he embarked on an ambitious campaign to unify the various small and fragmented kingdoms and principalities of the region into a single state under his leadership. His reign marked the beginning of the Shah dynasty, which ruled Nepal until 2008.

Early Life and Background
Prithvi Narayan Shah was born on January 11, 1723, into the royal family of Gorkha. He was the son of King Nara Bhupal Shah and Queen Kaushalyavati Devi. From an early age, Prithvi Narayan was exposed to the complexities of governance and military tactics, receiving an education that emphasized the importance of consolidating power and expanding his kingdom.

Vision of Unification
Under the influence of his mother and his teachers, Prithvi Narayan developed a vision for a unified Nepal, free from foreign influence and internal divisions. He saw the strategic importance of Nepal as a buffer state between the powerful empires of the British East India Company to the south and the Tibetan Empire to the north.

Conquests and Expansion
His quest to unify Nepal began with the conquest of Nuwakot in 1744, which was a strategic location between Kathmandu and Gorkha. The victory was crucial as it secured a vital trade route and established a base for further expansions. Following Nuwakot, Prithvi Narayan Shah turned his attention towards the Kathmandu Valley, which was then divided among three kingdoms: Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur.

Through a combination of military strategy, diplomatic maneuvering, and sieges, he gradually took control of the entire valley by 1769. His success in the valley set the stage for further expansion, and by the end of his reign, his control extended to much of what constitutes present-day Nepal.

Governance and Administration
Once he secured his territories, Prithvi Narayan Shah focused on governance reforms to integrate his new conquests and ensure stable rule. He promoted a centralized administration, encouraged trade, and implemented policies to foster a sense of unity among his subjects. He respected local customs and traditions but worked to blend them into a cohesive national identity.

Legacy
Prithvi Narayan Shah passed away on January 11, 1775, but his legacy lived on through the Shah dynasty and the unified nation he helped create. He is often referred to as the “Father of the Nation” in Nepal for his role in founding the modern state. His unification of Nepal is considered a significant achievement that helped preserve its independence during a period when neighboring regions were often colonized by European powers.

Cultural Impact
Prithvi Narayan Shah’s vision and directives were encapsulated in the “Divyopadesh” (Divine Counsels), where he outlined his thoughts on governance, foreign policy, and national unity. His emphasis on self-reliance and caution against foreign entanglements have been influential in shaping Nepali nationalism and policy.

Prithvi Narayan Shah remains a celebrated and sometimes controversial figure in Nepalese history. His achievements in unifying Nepal have been widely lauded, although aspects of his rule, like any historical figure, are subject to critique and analysis. Nonetheless, his impact on the course of Nepalese history is undeniable.