Biratnagar Awaits Eagerly

THE preparation for the civic reception in honour of His Majesty King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev and Her Majesty Queen Komal Rajya Laxmi Devi Shah in the eastern city of Biratnagar is almost complete. The significance of the historic event lies in the fact this is the first time, following His Majesty's accession to the Throne one and half years ago, that His Majesty the King is visiting Biratnagar and is being honoured by the people. For the past few weeks, people from all walks of life and various national as well as local organisations have been working on a war footing for the preparation. There have been reports that the Sub-Metropolitan City wears a bridal look with all sorts of colourful gates and display of national flags at different locations in order to welcome the beloved Royal Couple. The Royal Visit to Biratnagar has also triggered the stalled development works to take momentum. Roads that had long been full of potholes have now been blacktopped, streetlights repaired and the city cleaned.

The enthusiasm and excitement people have shown to receive an audience from Their Majesties is a clear evidence that Nepalese people have great faith in the Monarch who stands as a symbol of national unity and source of inspiration to all. Going by the history of Nepal, Nepalese monarchs have always played a crucial role to relieve the country from misfortunes whenever they arose. The kings of Shah Dynasty, that began with Prithvi Narayan Shah the Great who unified Nepal from petty states, have always nurtured nationalism and patriotism. They have always run the state affairs according to the will of the people, as reflected in His Majesty's commitment to Constitutional Monarchy and democracy.

The local people of Biratnagar say that they are eagerly waiting for a few words of comfort from His Majesty in the present time of crisis. The civic reception is also an opportunity for the people to understand and interact with their revered King. Therefore, it has been felt that more such visits should be arranged so that intimate relationship between the Monarch and the people can be further consolidated.

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