Gorkhapatra: Nepal’s Oldest and Most Iconic Newspaper
Gorkhapatra (गोरखापत्र), meaning “The Gorkha Paper,” is Nepal’s oldest and most historically significant national newspaper. Established in 1901, it holds a prominent place in the media landscape of Nepal and continues to be a critical voice in the dissemination of public information.
Quick Facts About Gorkhapatra
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Founded: May 6, 1901 (Baisakh 24, 1958 B.S.)
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Founder: Dev Shumsher Jung Bahadur Rana
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Type: Daily newspaper
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Language: Nepali (with occasional English publications)
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Publisher: Gorkhapatra Corporation (state-owned)
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Headquarters: Kathmandu, Nepal
Historical Background
Gorkhapatra was established during the Rana regime under Prime Minister Dev Shumsher Rana, known for his relatively liberal views compared to his predecessors. It was envisioned as a medium to inform and educate the general public.
Initially published once a week, the newspaper gradually expanded in scope and frequency. It transitioned to a daily publication in 1961, and since then, it has played a vital role in both reflecting and shaping public discourse in Nepal.
Key Milestones
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1901: First issue published
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1961: Became a daily newspaper
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2001: Celebrated its centennial anniversary
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Digital Edition: Gorkhapatra has also moved into the digital realm with an online version to reach global audiences
Editorial Style and Content
Gorkhapatra maintains a formal and informative editorial tone, covering topics such as:
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National news and government policies
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Social and economic issues
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Literature and culture
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International news
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Editorial opinions and public notices
It has historically served as a government mouthpiece but has evolved to include a broader range of perspectives, though it is still state-owned.
Gorkhapatra Corporation and Publications
Gorkhapatra is published by the Gorkhapatra Corporation, which also manages several other notable publications, including:
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The Rising Nepal – An English-language daily
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Muna – A children’s magazine
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Yuva Manch – A youth-focused magazine
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Madhupark – A monthly literary magazine
These publications collectively contribute to Nepali literature, journalism, and media development.
Digital Transformation
In recent years, Gorkhapatra has embraced digital journalism. Its online portal offers easy access to current news, archives, and e-papers. This shift reflects global media trends and helps the newspaper stay relevant in the digital age.
Website:
Cultural and Educational Impact
Gorkhapatra holds immense historical value. It has been instrumental in:
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Documenting Nepal’s socio-political evolution
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Promoting the Nepali language and literature
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Serving as a reference for academic and historical research
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Acting as a medium of public notices and governmental transparency
Interesting Trivia
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Gorkhapatra is the longest-running newspaper in Nepal.
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In the early days, issues were printed manually using a hand-operated press.
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The first issues had very limited distribution—only a few copies per week.
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It is sometimes affectionately referred to as “Nepal’s oldest daily voice.”