Nepal Celebrates 111th Birth Anniversary of BP Koirala

The 111th birth anniversary of BP Koirala, Nepal’s first elected Prime Minister, is being commemorated today with various events across the country. Koirala, born on Bhadra 24, 1971 BS, played a pivotal role in the establishment of democracy in Nepal and remains a towering figure in the nation’s political and literary history.

Koirala founded the Nepali National Congress in 2003 BS during his exile in India, aiming to end the autocratic Rana regime. His efforts significantly contributed to the democratic revolution of 2007 BS. While in India, Koirala actively participated in India’s freedom struggle, believing that India’s independence would pave the way for democracy in Nepal.

Following the success of the 2007 revolution, Koirala became the Home Minister in the Rana-Congress government and later the first elected Prime Minister of Nepal after the Congress won a two-thirds majority in the 2015 general elections. During his tenure, he abolished the land tenure system and introduced progressive land reforms, emphasizing that land should belong to those who till it.

However, on Poush 1, 2017 BS, Koirala’s government was overthrown by the then King, leading to his imprisonment. Released in 2025 BS for medical treatment, he lived in exile in India for eight years before returning to Nepal on Poush 16, 2033 BS, with a policy of national unity and reconciliation. This policy led to a referendum on the choice between a multi-party system or a reformed Panchayat system three years later, which the democrats lost amid allegations of fraud. Despite this, Koirala accepted the results. He passed away on Saun 6, 2039 BS, due to throat cancer.

Beyond politics, Koirala was a celebrated figure in Nepali literature, with over 18 works to his name, including popular novels such as “Tin Ghumti,” “Modi Ain,” “Hitler and Jew,” and “Sumnima,” as well as story collections “Shwet Bhairavi” and “Doshi Chashma.”

The Sundarijal Prison, where Koirala and other leaders were imprisoned, has been transformed into a BP Museum, showcasing various aspects of his life and contributions.

To honor his legacy, the Nepali Congress, along with its sister organizations and the BP Museum, are organizing various programs today to commemorate BP Koirala’s life and contributions.