Princess Jayanti Rajya Lakshmi Devi Shah (4 August 1946 – 1 June 2001) remains a symbol of resilience, compassion, and dedication. As a granddaughter of King Tribhuvan of Nepal, she used her royal status to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many, especially through her tireless work in cancer relief and cardiac health. Her untimely demise in the 2001 Nepalese royal massacre was a tragic loss, but her legacy continues to inspire generations.
Early Life and Education of Jayanti Rajya Lakshmi Devi Shah
Born into the royal family of Nepal, Princess Jayanti was the eldest daughter of Prince Basundhara and Princess Helen Shah. Her privileged upbringing was balanced by an international education that nurtured her intellect and global perspective. She attended the Woodstock School in Mussoorie, India, and the Loreto Convent in Darjeeling, India. Her academic journey culminated at Tribhuvan University, where she graduated in 1970.
From an early age, Jayanti Rajya Lakshmi Devi Shah was known for her keen sense of duty and empathy. These qualities shaped her life’s work and defined her legacy.
Dedication to Social Causes
Jayanti Rajya Lakshmi Devi Shah life was a testament to her unwavering commitment to social welfare. She was a trailblazer in addressing cancer treatment and awareness in Nepal. As the founder and chairperson of the Nepal Cancer Relief Society from 1982 to 2001, she played a pivotal role in raising awareness about cancer, organizing anti-smoking campaigns, and collaborating with international organizations to establish a cancer hospital in Nepal.
Jayanti Rajya Lakshmi Devi Shah’s compassion extended beyond cancer patients. Witnessing her family’s struggles with heart diseases, Princess Jayanti championed cardiac health initiatives, striving to make treatment accessible and affordable for all. She believed in bridging the gap between privilege and need, focusing her efforts on the health and well-being of the Nepalese people.
Advocacy for Tourism and Environmental Awareness
Princess Jayanti also recognized the potential of tourism as a vehicle for economic growth and cultural preservation in Nepal. She worked tirelessly to promote Nepal as a premier tourist destination while emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation. By attending international conferences and presenting papers across Europe and America, she showcased Nepal’s unique heritage and highlighted pressing environmental challenges.
The Tragic Nepalese Royal Massacre
On 1 June 2001, Nepal was shaken by a devastating tragedy—the royal massacre at the Narayanhiti Palace. Princess Jayanti was among the ten members of the royal family who lost their lives in this horrific event. While her life was cut short, her contributions to society ensured that her memory would endure.
Her mother, Princess Helen, and younger sister, Ketaki Chester, survived the massacre, with Helen later dedicating her efforts to preserving Jayanti’s legacy through meaningful initiatives.
Legacy and Impact
Jayanti Rajya Lakshmi Devi Shah’s influence did not end with her death. The Jayanti Memorial Trust (JMT), established by her mother, continues her mission to combat cardiac diseases and make healthcare accessible to all. The trust organizes awareness programs, provides financial support to patients, and ensures that Princess Jayanti’s compassion lives on.
In honor of her contributions, the Jayanti Rajya Lakshmi Devi Shah Achievement Award Ceremony was initiated. This annual event, organized in collaboration with Hotel Annapurna and JMT, recognizes outstanding female students at the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM). By empowering women, the award reflects the Princess’s belief in education and gender equality.
National Recognition and Honours
Princess Jayanti’s extraordinary contributions to Nepal were recognized with several prestigious national honors:
- Member of the Order of the Gurkha Right Hand, 1st class.
- King Mahendra Coronation Medal (1956).
- King Birendra Coronation Medal (1975).
- Commemorative Silver Jubilee Medal of King Birendra (1997).
These accolades symbolize her dedication to her country and its people.
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