Gyanendra Shah: Former King of Nepal & His Legacy

Know About Gyanendra Shah: Gyanendra Shah served as the last monarch of Nepal between the years 2001 and 2008. While he was initially crowned king after the shocking royal massacre that took place and wiped out most of the royal family, his reign was marked by severe political conflict including the controversial decision of him taking direct control of the government in 2005 Shah’s rule. Gyanendra’s rule came to an end in 2008 when the mass protests and the movement aimed at establishing democracy led to the abolishment of monarchy in the country and the emergence of Nepal as a republic. A part from losing the crown, Gyanendra continued to play a critical role in the history and politics of Nepal even after loosing power. His authority and rule still sparks debate to this very day. If you are intrigued about love, rules and the impact of Gyanendra Shah, continue reading to find out about the last King of Nepal, and his tumultuous journey to power and downfall. Who is Gyanendra Shah? Gyanendra Shah sailed as the last monarch of Nepal in between 2001-2008. He was born on the 7th of July in 1947, during his childhood in early 1950s, he briefly became the king until his grandfather King Tribhuvan was brought back into power.

He regained the throne after the horrifying royal massacre in Nepal that took place in 2001 which included the death of King Birendra along with most of the members of the royal family. His reign is characterized by constant political issues which cumulated in him taking unilateral control over the government in 2005, this led to intense protests. Following the abolishment of the monarchy in 2008, Nepal became a republic. Gyanendra has played an important part in the Nepali government and history while living the life of a civilian citizen.  

Family  

 
Gyanendra Shah is the second son of King Mahendra and Queen Indra Rajya Lakshmi Devi. He was born into the royal household of Nepal and is the younger sibling of King Birendra, who was also a victim in the royal massacre in Nepal.  Gyanendra married Queen Komal Rajya Lakshmi Devi in 1970. Together they had two children, the daughter is Kumar Bahadur Singh married to Prerana Shah and the son, Paras Shah, is famed for his controversial persona.  

Extended Family:   

Grandfather: Tribhuvan King                                                                                                                                                                                   
Brother: King Birendra                                                                                                                                                                                        
Sisters: Princess Shobha, Princess Sharada, Princess Shanti                                                                                                                                                   

Even after the monarchy was dissolved in 2008, Gyanendra and his family continue to remain influential figures in the sociopolitical landscape of Nepal.

Gyanendra Shah's Education Background

Similarly to other members of the royal family, Gyanendra Shah attended the St. Joseph’s School in Darjeeling, India. Later, he earned a postgraduate degree from Tribhuvan University in Nepal.

Gyanendra was well known for his reticent personality and mastery of the administrative processes even as a child. He had been described as quiet and honest schooling.

Gyanendra Shah’s Rule and The Issues That Arised During His Reign

After the gruesome Nepalese royal massacre, which resulted in the death of King Birendra and most of the royal family, Gyanendra Shah became the King of Nepal on June 4, 2001. His reign (2001-2008) was characterized by severe political instability, dissatisfaction, and a growing Maoist insurgency.  

Dissolution of Government (2002 & 2005): Gyanendra dissolved the democratically elected government in 2002 for being ineffective. He took complete control in 2005 claiming it was necessary to maintain order and peace. This move was widely criticized as authoritarian for its dictatorship style.

The Maoist insurgency, which already posed a significant threat before he became king, escalated under his leadership. It was made worse by his inability to cope with the situation, and the resulting anger fueled even more opposition.

Mass protests throughout the country (Jana Andolan II) in 2006 forced Gyanendra to hand over control to the parliamentary forces and restore a democratic system.

The Constituent Assembly declared a republic of Nepal in 2008, thereby bringing an end to the country's monarchy that had lasted for 240 years. Gyanendra resigned peacefully and left the royal palace.

Gyanendra Shah's net worth

As reported by Nepali Sansar, he owns substantial shares in several companies, which include a 39% stake in Surya Nepal Tobacco, 54% in Himalayan Goodricke, 40% in Soaltee Hotel and Annapurna Hotels.

The former king's portfolio also includes large tea estates in Itahari, Jerthi Spinning Mills, Narayanghat Brewery, Bhotekoshi Power Company, Gorkha Lawrie and Amaravati Private Limited, as well as Himal International Power Corporation and Sirpadi Trading Private Limited.

Gyanendra's company holdings have increased in value over the past few years, earning him the title of King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev, the itl of the single wealthiest man in Nepal at 58 million dollars.

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