Who is Gyanendra Shah? Know about the former King of Nepal

Know about Gyanendra Shah: The final monarch of Nepal, Gyanendra Shah, reigned from 2001 until 2008. Following the terrible royal slaughter that destroyed the majority of the royal family, he was crowned king. Political unrest characterized his rule, particularly his contentious choice to assume direct government control in 2005.

However, in 2008, the monarchy ended, and Nepal became a republic due to widespread protests and a democratic movement. Even after losing his crown, Gyanendra is still a prominent figure in Nepalese politics and history.

His legacy and position are still up for dispute. Are you curious about his life, rules, and influence? Continue reading to learn about the final king of Nepal and his rise to prominence and fall from grace.

Who is Gyanendra Shah?

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The last monarch of Nepal, Gyanendra Shah, reigned from 2001 until 2008. He was born on July 7, 1947, and briefly ascended to the kingdom as a child in 1950 until his grandfather, King Tribhuvan, was reinstated.

Following the devastating royal massacre in Nepal in 2001, which claimed the lives of King Birendra and the majority of the royal family, he regained the throne. Political turmoil plagued Gyanendra's administration, and in 2005, he took direct control of the government, sparking widespread demonstrations.

Nepal became a republic after abolishing the monarchy in 2008; despite living as a private citizen ever since Gyanendra continues to play an important role in Nepali politics and history.

Gyanendra Shah's family

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Gyanendra Shah, the second son of King Mahendra and Queen Indra Rajya Lakshmi Devi, was born into Nepal's royal dynasty. He is King Birendra's younger brother, who tragically died in the royal massacre in Nepal in 2001.

In 1970 Gyanendra married Queen Komal Rajya Lakshmi Devi. They are parents to two kids:

The son of the former crown prince, Paras Shah, is well-known for his contentious public persona.

Kumar Bahadur Singh is married to Prerana Shah, his daughter.

Extended Family:

• Grandfather: Tribhuvan King
• Brother: the predecessor, King Birendra
• Sisters: Princesses Shobha, Sharada, and Shanti
• Gyanendra and his family continue to significantly impact Nepal's sociopolitical environment even after the monarchy was abolished in 2008.

Gyanendra Shah's education qualifications

Gyanendra Shah attended the renowned St. Joseph's School in Darjeeling, India, just like other royal family members. After that, he graduated from Nepal's Tribhuvan University with a higher degree.

Gyanendra was renowned from a young age for his taciturn manner and command of administrative procedures. He was reportedly a quiet, truthful student.

Gyanendra Shah's reign and controversies

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Following the devastating Nepalese royal massacre, which claimed the lives of King Birendra and the majority of the royal family, Gyanendra Shah was crowned King of Nepal on June 4, 2001. Political instability, a growing Maoist insurgency, and disputes characterized his rule (2001每2008).

• Government Dissolution (2002 & 2005): Gyanendra dissolved the elected government in 2002 because it was ineffective. He seized all authority in 2005, saying it was required to bring peace. Many people denounced this action as being authoritarian.
• Maoist Conflict: The Maoist insurgency, already a significant problem before his accession, intensified during his leadership. Opposition was exacerbated by his incapacity to control the situation.
• Large-scale nationwide demonstrations (Jana Andolan II) 2006 compelled Gyanendra to reinstate Parliament and return power to democratic forces.
• 2008 saw the official end of Nepal's 240-year monarchy as the Constituent Assembly proclaimed the nation a republic. Gyanendra quietly resigned and departed the royal palace.

Gyanendra Shah's net worth

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As per the reports by Nepali Sansar, he currently has sizable shares in Annapurna Hotels, a 39% stake in Surya Nepal Tobacco, a 54% stake in Himalayan Goodricke, and a 40% stake in Soaltee Hotel.

Large tea estates in Itahari, Himal International Power Corporation, Jyoti spinning mill in Birgunj, Laxmi Rosin Turpentine Pvt Ltd, Narayanghat brewery, Sirpadi Trading Pvt Ltd, Bhotekoshi power company, Gorkha Lawrie Pvt Ltd, and Amaravati Pvt Ltd are among the businesses in which the former monarch has invested.

King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev is one of the wealthiest individuals in Nepal, with an estimated total net worth of USD 58 million.

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