Gorkhapatra: Nepal’s First National Newspaper and Voice of History

Gorkhapatra (गोरखापत्र) is Nepal’s oldest and most historic newspaper, published in the Nepali language. First printed in 1901, it stands as a symbol of Nepal’s print journalism legacy. Operated by the Gorkhapatra Corporation, a government-run media house, Gorkhapatra has witnessed—and reported on—Nepal’s transformation from monarchy to democracy.


📰 Quick Facts

Attribute Details
Name Gorkhapatra (गोरखापत्र)
Founded May 6, 1901 (Baisakh 24, 1958 B.S.)
Founder Dev Shumsher Jung Bahadur Rana
Publisher Gorkhapatra Corporation
Language Nepali
Format Broadsheet (print) and digital
Headquarters Bhadrakali, Kathmandu, Nepal
Website gorkhapatraonline.com

🏛️ Historical Significance

Gorkhapatra was first printed during the Rana regime under Prime Minister Dev Shumsher JBR, who introduced it as a weekly publication. It was originally published from Thapathali Durbar using a hand-operated press.

It is now the longest-running newspaper in Nepal, serving as the first formal medium of mass communication in the country. Over time, it has evolved from a government mouthpiece to a more public-facing national daily, particularly in democratic Nepal.


🧭 Mission and Purpose

As a government-owned publication, Gorkhapatra’s mission is to:

  • Disseminate official information, notices, and public policies

  • Educate citizens on governance, development, and national identity

  • Promote Nepali literature, language, and culture

  • Act as a historical archive of national progress


📰 Content and Sections

1. National News

  • Government policies, development updates, economic reports

  • Parliament activities and constitutional matters

  • Regional reports from all 7 provinces of Nepal

2. Editorials and Opinions

  • Government viewpoints on national issues

  • Public opinions and invited columns from experts

3. International News

  • South Asia affairs and global diplomatic events

  • Global crises and their impact on Nepal

4. Literature & Culture

  • Poetry, essays, and stories from Nepali writers

  • Promotion of Nepali heritage and cultural traditions

5. Public Announcements

  • Government job vacancies

  • Official tenders, decisions, and public notices


📡 Digital Edition

Gorkhapatra has successfully transitioned into the digital space through:

  • Official Website: gorkhapatraonline.com

  • ePaper Edition: Complete digital copy of the printed newspaper

  • Mobile Access: Available on smartphones for broader reach

  • Archives: Digital access to past editions dating back decades


📚 Associated Publications

The Gorkhapatra Corporation also publishes other major periodicals:

  • The Rising Nepal (English daily)

  • Muna (children’s magazine)

  • Yubamanch (youth magazine)

  • Madhuparka (literary magazine)


🌍 Influence and Reach

  • One of the most widely distributed newspapers in rural Nepal

  • Trusted by educators, civil servants, and local leaders

  • A go-to source for government communications

  • Cited in research, academic journals, and media studies worldwide


🏆 Legacy and Trivia

  • First published more than 120 years ago

  • It began as a weekly and became a daily in 1961

  • During the Panchayat era, it was Nepal’s primary state-controlled medium

  • Contains rich archives from the 20th century, offering a glimpse into Nepal’s political evolution


📣 Want to Read Gorkhapatra Online?

You can explore the digital edition and archives here:
👉 https://gorkhapatraonline.com

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *