Shumsher

Shumsher (also spelled Shamsher) is a surname and title primarily associated with a prominent clan within the Chhetri caste of Nepal.

The Shumsher clan rose to significant political power in Nepal during the Rana dynasty, where they served as hereditary prime ministers from 1846 to 1951. This period is known as the Rana regime. The Shumsher Ranas implemented an autocratic system of governance, limiting the power of the monarchy and centralizing authority within their family.

Key figures bearing the Shumsher name during the Rana period held significant positions in the Nepalese government and military. The Shumsher Ranas maintained close ties with the British Raj in India, which influenced Nepal's foreign policy and internal affairs.

After the fall of the Rana regime in 1951, the influence of the Shumsher family in Nepalese politics diminished. However, individuals with the Shumsher surname continue to be present in various sectors of Nepali society.

The name "Shumsher" has Persian origins, potentially related to "Shamsher," meaning sword. The name reflects the martial traditions historically associated with the Chhetri caste in Nepal.