Description:
(Former King of Nepal)
Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev was the King of Nepal from 1955 to 1972. He was the ninth Shah dynasty emperor of Nepal. His reigning years were marked with numerous political reforms aimed at improving and developing the economic, political and social status of his country. Historians describe him as a “true patriot” as he firmly believed in the mantra "May my country lives on even if I die". He was admired, as the "Builder of Nepal" because he had constructed several monuments, buildings and improved the lifestyle of his people. His notable works include the construction of East-West Highway (Mahendra Highway), the Pragya Pratisthan Bhawan and Back to the Village National Campaign. He played an important role in making Nepal a member of the United Nations. In the light of his achievements, he was bestowed with several honours and awards such as Knight of the Order of the Elephant (Denmark), Royal Victorian Chain (U.K.) and Collar of the Order of the Chrysanthemum (Japan). King Mahendra was survived by his son Birendra who took to the throne in the spring of 1975.
Birthday
June 11, 1920 (Gemini)
City
Kathmandu, Nepal
Died on
January 31, 1972
Spouse/Ex-
Indra Rajya Laxmi Devi, Queen Ratna of Nepal
Parents
King Tribhuvan of Nepal
Queen Kanti Rajya Laxmi Devi Shah
Children
King Birendra, King Gyanendra, Prince Dhirendra, Princess Shanti, Princess Sharada, Princess Shobha
What were the major achievements of Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev during his reign?
Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev led Nepal through a period of political transformation, including the establishment of a new constitution in 1962 and the introduction of a partyless Panchayat system in 1962.
How did Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev impact the economic development of Nepal?
Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev initiated various economic reforms, including promoting industrialization, modernizing agriculture, and encouraging foreign investment to stimulate Nepal's economic growth.
What was the role of Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev in promoting cultural heritage and traditions in Nepal?
Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev actively supported the preservation and promotion of Nepal's rich cultural heritage, including the restoration of historical monuments and the patronage of traditional arts and crafts.
How did Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev contribute to the education sector in Nepal?
Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev prioritized education reform, expanding access to schools and colleges, promoting literacy programs, and investing in educational infrastructure to improve the quality of education in Nepal.
What was the significance of Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev's foreign policy initiatives?
Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev pursued a policy of non-alignment and sought to maintain friendly relations with various countries, contributing to Nepal's diplomatic engagements and international standing during his reign.
