What is the old name of Nepal?
In its early days after unification, Nepal was historically known as the Gorkha kingdom or Gorkha empire.
Historical Context of Nepal's Naming
The modern nation-state of Nepal, as it stands today, was not always a unified entity. Before its current form, the region was a mosaic of numerous smaller kingdoms, principalities, and confederations. The significant process of unification, spearheaded by King Prithvi Narayan Shah of the Gorkha Kingdom in the mid-18th century, led to the consolidation of these diverse territories into a single, cohesive state.
The Rise of the Gorkha Kingdom
The designation "Gorkha kingdom" or "Gorkha empire" directly emerged from this pivotal period of unification. The expansionist campaigns initiated by the rulers of the Gorkha Kingdom, a small princely state located to the west of Kathmandu, were instrumental in forging the unified Nepal. As their dominion expanded through strategic military conquests, the newly acquired territories, which eventually encompassed a significant portion of present-day Nepal, came to be identified with the name of the conquering power.
This nomenclature reflected the authority and lineage of the Shah dynasty, which originated from Gorkha. It symbolized the new political landscape that came into being following the successful integration of various independent states under a single banner.
Evolution of Nepal's Identity
While the terms "Gorkha kingdom" or "Gorkha empire" primarily referred to the unified state during its foundational years, the name "Nepal" gradually gained prominence to denote the entire country. Initially, "Nepal" specifically referred to the Kathmandu Valley. However, with the successful expansion and consolidation efforts by the Gorkha rulers, the name "Nepal" was eventually adopted to encompass the entire unified nation, signifying its new, broader identity.
Here’s a brief overview of the names associated with Nepal's early unified period:
| Period/Phase | Common Historical Name | Key Characteristic |
|---|---|---|
| Post-Unification | Gorkha Kingdom / Gorkha Empire | The unified state founded by conquests originating from the Gorkha region. |
This historical designation underscores the crucial role played by the Gorkha rulers and their military prowess in shaping the geopolitical structure of the region and establishing the foundation of modern Nepal.
