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:
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Disseminate official information, notices, and public policies
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Educate citizens on governance, development, and national identity
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Promote Nepali literature, language, and culture
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Act as a historical archive of national progress
📰 Content and Sections
1. National News
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Government policies, development updates, economic reports
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Parliament activities and constitutional matters
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Regional reports from all 7 provinces of Nepal
2. Editorials and Opinions
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Government viewpoints on national issues
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Public opinions and invited columns from experts
3. International News
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South Asia affairs and global diplomatic events
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Global crises and their impact on Nepal
4. Literature & Culture
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Poetry, essays, and stories from Nepali writers
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Promotion of Nepali heritage and cultural traditions
5. Public Announcements
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Government job vacancies
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Official tenders, decisions, and public notices
📡 Digital Edition
Gorkhapatra has successfully transitioned into the digital space through:
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Official Website: gorkhapatraonline.com
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ePaper Edition: Complete digital copy of the printed newspaper
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Mobile Access: Available on smartphones for broader reach
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Archives: Digital access to past editions dating back decades
📚 Associated Publications
The Gorkhapatra Corporation also publishes other major periodicals:
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The Rising Nepal (English daily)
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Muna (children’s magazine)
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Yubamanch (youth magazine)
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Madhuparka (literary magazine)
🌍 Influence and Reach
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One of the most widely distributed newspapers in rural Nepal
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Trusted by educators, civil servants, and local leaders
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A go-to source for government communications
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Cited in research, academic journals, and media studies worldwide
🏆 Legacy and Trivia
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First published more than 120 years ago
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It began as a weekly and became a daily in 1961
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During the Panchayat era, it was Nepal’s primary state-controlled medium
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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