Bhimsen Thapa

Bhimsen Thapa became the first Mukhtiyar (equivalent to prime minister) of Nepal after the assassination of Rana Bahadur Shah. He consolidated power and became the de facto ruler, serving under the minor king Girvan Yuddha Bikram Shah.

Bhimsen Thapa modernized the Nepalese army by introducing European-style training, weapons, and organization. He established arsenals, recruited Gurkha soldiers, and expanded the army's size, making it a formidable force in the region.

Bhimsen Thapa led Nepal into the Anglo-Nepalese War against the British East India Company. Despite initial Nepalese victories, the war ended with the Treaty of Sugauli in 1816, which forced Nepal to cede territories including Sikkim and Kumaon.

Bhimsen Thapa signed the Treaty of Sugauli with the British, ending the Anglo-Nepalese War. Nepal lost about one-third of its territory, including the Tarai plains, and was forced to accept a British resident in Kathmandu, limiting its sovereignty.

Bhimsen Thapa was removed from power in 1837 after a court intrigue and accusations of poisoning the young king. He was imprisoned and later committed suicide in 1839, ending his 31-year dominance over Nepalese politics.