Final answer:
Prithivi Narayan Shah justified as a democratic, far-sighted, and diplomatic ruler through practices like pacification, social reforms, centralized leadership, religious tolerance, and successful nation-establishment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Prithivi Narayan Shah, the ruler of 18th century Nepal, can be justified as a democratic, far-sighted, and diplomatic ruler through various reasons:
- He practiced pacification and reconciliation, promoting peace and harmony among different religious groups in his empire. For example, he married Hindu women, gave Hindus equal rights, and appointed them to high administrative positions.
- He implemented social reforms to empower women, such as fighting against harem isolation and child marriages.
- Prithivi Narayan Shah provided strong centralized leadership, which was lacking in India for over 1000 years, since the Gupta dynasty.
- He encouraged religious debates and created his own religion that combined Muslim and Hindu elements. He respected both Hindu temples and Islamic mosques to promote unity and tolerance.
- Narayan Shah's efforts to unite India and his respect for all religions were appreciated by Hindus but viewed with suspicion by Muslims. He never forced anyone to follow his religious beliefs.
- Finally, Prithivi Narayan Shah's leadership and diplomatic skills led to the successful establishment of Nepal as a political entity.