The 111th birth anniversary of BP Koirala, Nepal’s first elected Prime Minister, is being celebrated today with various events across the country.
Born on Bhadra 24, 1971 BS, Koirala was a key figure in the fight against the autocratic Rana regime. While in exile in India, he founded the Nepali National Congress in 2003 BS, which played a pivotal role in the establishment of democracy in 2007 BS. BP also took part in India’s freedom movement, believing that India’s independence would pave the way for democracy in Nepal.
Following the 2007 revolution, Koirala served as the Home Minister in the Rana-Congress government led by Mohan Shumsher. After the Nepali Congress won a landslide victory in the 2015 general elections, Koirala became Nepal’s first elected Prime Minister. During his tenure, he implemented significant land reforms, ensuring that land belonged to the tiller.
However, on Poush 1, 2017 BS, Koirala’s government was overthrown by the monarchy, leading to his imprisonment. He was released for medical treatment in 2025 BS and spent eight years in exile in India. Koirala returned to Nepal on 16 Poush 2033 BS with a policy of national unity and reconciliation. This eventually led to a referendum on the multi-party system versus a reformed Panchayat system, which the democrats lost, though BP accepted the results despite claims of electoral fraud. He passed away on Saun 6, 2039 BS due to throat cancer.
In addition to his political legacy, BP Koirala made significant contributions to Nepali literature. He authored over 18 works, including popular novels like *Tin Ghumti*, *Modi Ain*, *Hitler and Jew*, and *Sumnima*, along with two short story collections, *Shwet Bhairavi* and *Doshi Chashma*.
The Sundarijal Prison, where Koirala and his colleagues were once held, has been transformed into the BP Museum, displaying exhibits that highlight his life and contributions.
In honor of BP Jayanti, various programs are being organized by the Nepali Congress, its affiliated organizations, and the BP Museum to remember and celebrate the life and legacy of BP Koirala.