Gandaki
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Gandaki
गण्डकी | |
|---|---|
State of Bhalam | |
 Flag | |
| Nickname: Land of the Kings | |
| Anthem: "Sayun Thunga Fulka Hami" (Royal anthem of Bhalam) | |
| Country | Bhalam |
| Statehood† | 6 December 2023 |
| Founded by | King Sulav Chhetri |
| Capital | Rayalechaur |
| Government | |
| • Mulkaji | Sulav Chhetri |
| • Crown Prince | Season Chhetri |
| • Governor | Vacant |
| • Chief Minister | Vacant |
| • Rank | 1st |
| Demonym | Gandakian |
| Time zone | UTC+05:45 (MST) |
Gandaki (Nepali: गण्डकी, is a state of Bhalam which is also the nation's most populated state. It was created after establishment of the micronation, on 6 December 2023. Gandaki only shares its borders with one state - Bagmati, its parent state. There are three official languages in the state - English, Nepali, Nepali bhasa. Due to the presence of mainly Hindu population in Gandaki, the Hindu festivals of Durga Puja, Deepawali, Holi and the cultural festival of Dashain are the major festivals observed within the state.
Gandaki has been the seat of the national government of Bhalam as the national capital region of Rayalechaur is also the capital of the state.
Etymology and history
The word "Gandaki" has its etymological roots in Sanskrit. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "ganda," which means 'cheek' or 'side.' The Gandaki River, often associated with this term, is one of the major rivers in Nepal, and the name likely refers to its winding course through the mountains, resembling the sides or cheeks of the landscape. The province was established on 6 December 2023 following the establishment of the micronation.
Governance
The province of Gandaki is one of the six royal provinces of the Bhalam. Following the establishment of the monarchy on 6 December 2023, the administration of the province has been carried out by the absolute monarch who is titled as the Mulkaji of Gandaki. The Mulkaji discharges the functions of both the head of state and government of the provincial administration. The main functions of the monarch includes appointing officials, maintaining law and order, representing the state and the interests of the people. The current and first monarch is Sulav Chhetri who ascended to the throne on 6 December 2023.