Tribhuvan Bir Bikram Shah (1906–1955) was the eighth King of Nepal and a national hero who played a central role in the overthrow of the autocratic Rana regime. Revered as the Father of the Nation, Tribhuvan’s reign marked Nepal’s transformation from a feudal autocracy to a constitutional monarchy and the beginning of modern democratic governance.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Full Name: Tribhuvan Bir Bikram Shah Dev

• Born: June 30, 1906, Kathmandu, Nepal

• Reigned: 1911–1955 (with interruption in 1950–1951)

• Died: March 13, 1955, Zurich, Switzerland

• Father: Prithvi Bir Bikram Shah

• Successor: Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah

• Dynasty: Shah Dynasty

• Notable Title: Father of Modern Nepal

Early Life and Accession

Tribhuvan was born in Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kathmandu. He became king at the age of 5 after the death of his father, Prithvi Bir Bikram Shah, in 1911. Like his predecessors, he initially held a ceremonial role under the iron grip of the Rana prime ministers, particularly Chandra Shumsher Rana and Juddha Shumsher Rana.

Though raised under strict supervision, Tribhuvan received a modern education and was exposed to both traditional Hindu studies and emerging nationalist sentiments.

Strained Relationship with the Rana Regime

As he matured, Tribhuvan became increasingly critical of the Rana regime, which had:

• Reduced the monarchy to a puppet institution.

• Centralized all military and political power in the hands of hereditary Rana prime ministers.

• Suppressed freedom of speech, education, and political organization.

Rise of Political Consciousness:

• Tribhuvan began secretly supporting anti-Rana movements, such as the Nepali Congress and Prajaparishad, which sought democratic reforms.

• He provided moral and logistical backing to activists calling for constitutional change.

The 1950 Royal Escape and Revolution

The defining moment in Tribhuvan’s reign came in November 1950, when he made a bold political move:

Key Events:

1. Exile to India:

   • Tribhuvan, along with the crown prince Mahendra and other royal family members, fled to the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu and then to New Delhi.

   • The Rana regime, furious at this move, installed Gyanendra, Tribhuvan’s grandson, as king.

2. Indian Support and Uprising:

   • The Indian government refused to recognize Gyanendra and negotiated with the Ranas and Nepali Congress leaders.

   • Nationwide uprisings and armed resistance followed, led by Nepali Congress forces.

3. Return to Power (1951):

   • On February 15, 1951, Tribhuvan was reinstated as king after a tripartite agreement between the monarchy, Ranas, and Nepali Congress.

   • This led to the end of Rana autocracy and the beginning of Nepal’s constitutional era.

Introduction of Constitutional Monarchy

Key Achievements:

• Formation of Nepal’s First Democratic Cabinet (1951):

  • Led by Prime Minister Mohan Shumsher Rana, but with real influence given to democratic leaders.

• Abolition of Hereditary Prime Ministership:

  • Ended over a century of unchallenged Rana rule.

• Promotion of Education and Infrastructure:

  • Supported opening of Tribhuvan University, airports, roads, and schools.

Though many challenges remained, Tribhuvan had effectively laid the foundation for democracy in Nepal.

Death and Succession

Tribhuvan passed away in Zurich, Switzerland, on March 13, 1955, following a long illness. He was succeeded by his son, Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah, who would later become a significant, though controversial, figure in Nepalese politics.

Legacy and Historical Significance

Tribhuvan is remembered as:

• The Father of Modern Nepal

• A symbol of national unity and resistance

• The monarch who reclaimed royal dignity and restored people’s sovereignty

His decision to defy the Rana regime and align with democratic forces is considered a watershed moment in Nepalese history.

Monuments and Memorials

• Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) – Nepal’s main international gateway

• Tribhuvan University (TU) – Nepal’s oldest and largest university

• Numerous roads, schools, and parks across Nepal are named in his honor.

 

Trivia and Cultural Notes

• Tribhuvan was the first monarch to actively engage in political revolution in Nepal.

• His portrait is widely used on Nepali currency and public stamps.

• Despite being born into a powerless monarchy, he played a decisive role in shaping Nepal’s democratic future.

Conclusion

Tribhuvan Bir Bikram Shah was more than a king — he was a revolutionary monarch, a bridge between traditional monarchy and modern governance. His bold stance against the Rana dictatorship and support for democratic reform earned him a permanent place in the hearts of Nepalis. His reign paved the way for a new era, where kings ruled with the people rather than over them.