Unification of Nepal - Part 3 | The Sugauli Treaty |

Summary

This video script chronicles the pivotal events of the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814-1816), highlighting the valiant resistance of Nepali forces under leaders like Sardar Bhakti Thapa, Kaji Bam Shah, and Amar Singh Thapa. Despite facing overwhelming British forces, the Nepali soldiers fought courageously at key battles such as Deothal, Kumaon, and Almora. Ultimately, the war ended with the signing of the Sugauli Treaty, leading to the loss of significant territories for Nepal. The script emphasizes the enduring legacy of Nepalese bravery and the ongoing debate over reclaiming lost lands, symbolizing the nation's pride and resilience.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sardar Bhakti Thapa led 400 Nepali soldiers in a fierce battle against 3,500 British troops at Deothal, ultimately sacrificing his life in the defense of the fort.
• 😀 Despite the bravery of the Nepali forces, they were overwhelmed by the British, who successfully captured the Deothal fort after Bhakti Thapa's death.
• 😀 Kaji Bam Shah faced a difficult battle in Kumaon, defending with only 1,500 soldiers against 4,500 British troops, but was eventually forced to retreat to Almora after the fall of several forts.
• 😀 British forces, led by Colonel Hearsey, gradually captured eastern Kumaon, forcing Kaji Bam Shah to seek reinforcements from Kathmandu.
• 😀 Kaji Bam Shah was eventually surrounded by British forces at Almora fort, and after a prolonged fight, he was compelled to surrender on Baisakh 16, 1872 B.S.
• 😀 General Ochterlony's advance towards Nepal's western forts, such as Malaun and Jaithak, was accompanied by aggressive negotiations, including an offer to Badakaji Amar Singh Thapa to join the British side.
• 😀 Amar Singh Thapa famously rejected the British offer with the defiant line, 'I am the cub of a tiger, do not mistake me for a vulture that feeds on scraps.'
• 😀 After ongoing resistance in the western forts, including Maloun, Amar Singh Thapa and Kaji Ranajor Singh Thapa were forced to negotiate and signed the Malaun Treaty on Jeth 4, 1872 B.S.
• 😀 The British victory in Makwanpur was followed by an attack on Hariharpur fort, which fell to Colonel Kelly and O'Halloran after heavy losses for the defenders.
• 😀 The Sugauli Treaty, signed on Falgun 24, 1872 B.S., saw Nepal cede large territories, reducing its size from 323,516 to 147,516 square kilometers, marking the end of the war and a significant loss of land for Nepal.

Q & A

What triggered the British forces' advance towards Nepal in the 1814-1816 Anglo-Nepalese War?

The British forces advanced towards Nepal after the Gorkhas expanded their territory into areas of the British East India Company's interests, particularly in the Terai region. The conflict was sparked by territorial disputes and strategic control over land.

What was the significance of the Battle of Deothal in the context of the Anglo-Nepalese War?

The Battle of Deothal marked a pivotal moment in the war, where Sardar Bhakti Thapa and his 400 soldiers fought valiantly against 3,500 British troops. Despite the courage of the Nepali forces, they lost the battle, and Sardar Bhakti Thapa was killed, significantly weakening Nepal's defense.

Why was Kaji Bam Shah's defense of Kumaon important during the war?

Kaji Bam Shah's defense of Kumaon was critical because it represented one of the last lines of resistance before the British captured the region. His leadership and strategic retreat to Almora fort demonstrated both resilience and the eventual overwhelming pressure faced by the Nepali forces.

How did Kaji Bam Shah and his forces attempt to cope with the British siege of Almora fort?

Kaji Bam Shah, with reinforcements from Hasti Dal Shah, tried to hold off the British forces under Colonel Nichols, but despite their brave defense with only 500 soldiers against 3,000 British troops, they were forced to surrender on Baisakh 16, 1872 B.S.

What was the key moment of defiance shown by Badakaji Amar Singh Thapa?

Badakaji Amar Singh Thapa’s key moment of defiance occurred when General Ochterlony attempted to persuade him to switch sides by offering higher pay and rank. Amar Singh famously responded, 'I am the cub of a tiger, do not mistake me for a vulture that feeds on scraps,' showcasing his unyielding loyalty to Nepal.

What role did the British forces' strategies play in the fall of various Nepali forts?

The British forces utilized strategic tactics such as surrounding forts, cutting off supply routes, and bribing local landlords for information, which contributed to the fall of several Nepali forts. The capture of Hariharpur fort and the subsequent retreat of Nepali forces showed the effectiveness of these tactics.

How did Nepal’s internal situation influence its decision to sign the Sugauli Treaty?

Nepal’s internal situation, including continuous military defeats, loss of key forts, and lack of reinforcements from Kathmandu, forced the government to seek a resolution. Exhausted and under pressure, Nepal eventually agreed to sign the Sugauli Treaty, ceding significant territory to the British to end the war.

What were the territorial losses for Nepal after the Sugauli Treaty?

The Sugauli Treaty led to Nepal losing all territories east of the Mechi River and west of the Mahakali River. The country's territory was reduced from 323,516 square kilometers to 147,516 square kilometers, marking a substantial loss.

Why were memorials erected by the British in honor of Nepali commanders like Sardar Bhakti Thapa and Captain Balbhadra Kunwar?

The British recognized the bravery and fierce resistance of Nepali commanders like Sardar Bhakti Thapa and Captain Balbhadra Kunwar, despite being adversaries. The memorials served as tributes to the courage and fighting spirit shown by the Gorkhas, which earned the respect of their enemies.

What is the ongoing debate surrounding 'Greater Nepal,' and why is it significant today?

The debate surrounding 'Greater Nepal' pertains to the idea of reclaiming territories lost in the Sugauli Treaty, especially areas like Kumaon and the Terai. This issue remains emotionally charged in Nepalese politics, with some advocating for its restoration, though practical or diplomatic challenges make such a goal highly contentious.