National Democracy Day in Nepal
DEMOCRACY Day ( Rashtriya Prajatantra Diwas to Nepalese) is celebrated annually on February 19 to commemorate the day in 1951 when King Prithvi Narayan Shah the Great led in liberating the Nepalese from 104 years of Rana autocracy. The day signaled the beginning of the restoration of equality and fair treatment in the whole country. On this day, the Nepalese also honor the martyrs of their country who inspired the citizens to continue the fight for democracy.
The day is usually observed throughout the country with a special program which includes a military parade by the Nepal Army at Tundikhel. A number of dignitaries, particularly the President (the King, before the monarchy was abolished, Prime Minister, and Speaker of the House, attend the program. The people also offer prayers to accord respect and honor to the heroes of Nepalese democracy. Most govern- ment organizations and independent groups hold their own activities and rallies all over the country. As part of the tradition, people illuminate their home and establishments and hold firework displays during the night of the celebration.
Nepal is a landlocked country in South Asia. It is bounded on the north by the People’s Republic of China, and on the southeast and west in India. Its capital and largest city is Kathmandu. The country is blessed with unique natural and cultural sites recognized by the United Nations Educational Scientific Cultural Organization ( UNESCO) as “World Heritage Sites.” Most of these are in Kathmandu.
The Philippines and Nepal established diplomatic relations on February 12, 1960. A significant number of Filipinos live in Nepal as missionaries, professionals, skilled workers, volunteers, or spouses of Nepalese and other nationals. An equally significant number of Nepalese are studying in Philippine higher education institutions. In September, 2015, Philippine Ambassador to India Ma. Teresita C. Daza presented her credentials as Non- resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Federal Democratic Republic ( FDR) of Nepal to then President of the FDR of Nepal Ram Baran Yadav. At one meeting, President Yadav spoke of the long- standing Philippines- Nepal relations and expressed appreciation for the assistance extended by the Philippines in the aftermath of the April- May, 2015 earthquake in his country and welcomed increased cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, training, agriculture ( rice production), and education.
We congratulate the government and people of Nepal led by President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, and Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli, on the occasion of its National Democracy Day.