Members of Nepali community in Australia came together to celebrate the 302nd 'Prithivi Jayanti,' also known as Nepalese National Unity Day. Nepali living in Australia marks the day as 'International Nepali Day.' Friday 12, January the event was observed in different states by Nepali community organisations recalling his contribution on rich history and the unification of one of the world's oldest countries.

Nepali Community in Australia Marks Prithivi Jayanti

Marking the birth anniversary of the esteemed king, Shree Paanch Badamaharajdhiraj Prithvi Narayan Shah, the celebration occurs annually on the Nepali month of Poush 27. Australians of Nepalese descent commemorated the day as 'Nepali Day,' organising different programs. Nepalese community leaders at Auburn Park, Sydney, emphasised role of Nepali history and cultural icons in uniting the community amidst political divisions in Nepal.

"Nepali history and cultural icons play a vital role in uniting the community," remarked Nepali community leader Madan Mani Adhikary, acknowledging the significance of Prithivi Narayan Shah at the core of Nepalese identity.

Dila Kharel, a community leader and NRNA activist, added, "We have a Nepali identity and a proud history; we should respect this." The celebration resonated with a sense of pride in the rich cultural heritage and historical roots.

adorable toddler watching image of Prithivi Narayan Shah
Little eyes, big curiosity!  Adorable toddler captivated by image of Prithvi Narayan Shah at a Nepalese Community gathering in Sydney. 

In Canberra, Santatn Samaj Australia organised a T-10 cricket tournament in tribute to Prithivi Narayan Shah's birth anniversary. Canberra Nepalese Cricket Club bagged the win, with Sumit Padal awarded the best bowler, Prashant Bista as the best batsman, and Dipta Raman Rizal as the best fielder.

In Adelaide, the overseas sister wing of the Nepalese political party Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), Overseas Nepalese Unified Society, Australia (ONUSA), conducted a program in celebration of Prithivi Jayanti. ONUSA recognized the community contributions of various members, presenting them with awards.

Prithvi Narayan Shah, born on 27 Poush 1779 Bikram Sambat, laid the foundation for Nepal's identity and successfully united the country as a robust South Asian nation. His efforts ensured the independence of the Himalayan Kingdom from British rule. The borders of Nepal extended from Tista in the east to Chepe river in the west during the unification movement. Following Prithvi Narayan, his successors continued expanding the Kingdom of Nepal's territory westward to Kangada. The legacy of Prithivi Jayanti serves as a reminder of Nepal's historical resilience and unity