Recently, former Prime Minister and President of the Nepali Congress (NC) Sher Bahadur Deuba, along with Dr Shashanka Koirala, the son of BP Koirala, visited BP Koirala’s ancestral home in Biratnagar. This house is more than just a physical structure; it stands as a symbol of Nepal’s long and arduous democratic struggle, embodying the resilience, vision and sacrifices of one of the nation’s most revered leaders. Given its immense historical significance, I had expected that Deuba, as a leader of the party that BP Koirala formed, would acknowledge its value and push for its preservation as a national museum. Unfortunately, that did not happen.
Despite its crucial role in Nepal’s democratic history, BP Koirala’s home remains neglected, with no concrete efforts from the government or political leadership to conserve it. This is more than just the deterioration of an old building; it is an alarming disregard for Nepal’s democratic legacy. Preserving BP Koirala’s home is not merely about safeguarding bricks and mortar—it is about honoring the struggle for democracy and ensuring that future generations comprehend the sacrifices made for Nepal’s freedom and progress.
BP Koirala, Nepal’s first democratically-elected Prime Minister, was a towering figure in the nation’s political evolution. A staunch advocate of democracy, socialism and nationalism, his ideals laid the foundation for modern Nepal. His Biratnagar residence, where he spent crucial years of his political career, bore witness to key moments in Nepal’s democratic journey. It was within these walls that historic discussions, revolutionary ideas and strategic planning took place, all of which played a significant role in Nepal’s transition away from autocracy. The house, therefore, is not just a relic of the past; it is a living testament to the democratic aspirations of the Nepali people.
Despite its historical and cultural significance, neither the government nor the party has made any effort to make it a museum. There has been no substantial governmental or institutional effort to preserve it, a situation that reflects a broader issue in Nepal: the failure to institutionalize historical memory. Around the world, nations take pride in preserving the residences of their national leaders, converting them into museums and cultural centers to educate future generations. India, for example, has meticulously preserved Mahatma Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram, which serves as both a museum and an educational center. Nelson Mandela’s former residence in South Africa stands as a monument to his struggles and achievements. Nepal, too, must recognize the value of its historical landmarks and act swiftly to preserve them before they are lost to neglect and decay.
Transforming BP Koirala’s home into a national museum would serve multiple purposes. Firstly, it would provide an educational space for citizens, particularly young Nepalis, to learn about Nepal’s democratic history. Schools and universities could utilize it as a learning center, offering invaluable insights into BP Koirala’s ideology and Nepal’s political evolution. Secondly, it would serve as a significant cultural and historical attraction, drawing both domestic and international visitors interested in Nepal’s democratic struggles. Thirdly, it would act as a unifying symbol for the nation, reminding both political leaders and citizens of the fundamental values of democracy, integrity, and principled politics.
To make this vision a reality, the government must take immediate action in collaboration with the party and civil society. A dedicated trust should be established to transform BP Koirala’s home and curate exhibits that showcase his writings, personal artifacts, photographs and audiovisual archives. Additionally, an interactive section could be incorporated to allow visitors to engage with his speeches and ideas through modern, immersive technology. Such efforts would not only preserve the house but also revitalize public interest in Nepal’s democratic heritage.
Nepal cannot afford to let its history fade away through negligence and apathy. The legacy of BP Koirala is too significant to be forgotten. Preserving his home as a museum would be a fitting tribute to his contributions and a reaffirmation of Nepal’s commitment to democracy. The time to act is now—before history crumbles before our eyes.
As a dedicated member of the Nepali Congress, I urge the leadership of our party to take decisive steps toward this cause. With the party currently holding power in the government, there is no better opportunity to take concrete action. The government should initiate the process of acquiring BP Koirala’s home and officially recognizing it as a national museum. This would not only honor BP Koirala’s contributions but also serve as an enduring reminder of Nepal’s democratic journey.
Beyond preserving our democratic legacy, Nepal must also focus on strengthening its global identity. Our country is renowned for its breathtaking mountains, its status as the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, the historical significance of Goddess Sita, and its deep spiritual importance for Hindus around the world. These are core elements of Nepal’s identity, and the government must prioritize the development and promotion of these aspects. Just as we must preserve our democratic history, we must also leverage our cultural and religious heritage to bolster Nepal’s global standing.
By taking action now, Nepal can ensure that both its democratic and cultural heritage are preserved and celebrated for generations to come.
The author, a member of the Supreme Court Bar, has been practicing corporate law for around three decades
