
29/07/2025
Bir Hospital, Bir Shumsher & Dr. Archan Shumsher Rana
A Century of Nepali Healthcare
Bir Hospital, Nepal’s first modern hospital, was founded in 1889 (1947 BS) by Prime Minister Bir Shumsher Jung Bahadur Rana. Starting as a modest seven-bed facility, it was a pivotal step in introducing Western medicine to the country.
Bir Shumsher’s vision for the hospital was to modernize Nepal’s healthcare. He observed Western medical practices abroad, likely in British India, and sought to emulate them. His plan involved building a facility with Victorian architecture, recruiting experienced foreign doctors( mostly from West Bengal) and establishing a formal medical system. The patients were provided with all amenities(food, free treatment) during their stay in hospital, a practice that exists till date with more than 1000 meals served each day via the Bir Kitchen and dietetic section.
This foundational institution eventually grew into the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS) in 2002, cementing its legacy as a cornerstone of medical education and care in Nepal.
Wishing Happy 136th anniversary to this great institution where I serve with immense pride and dignity.
MARK International Kidney Centre
DrArchan Shumsher Rana
Sudur Paschim International Dialysis Centre