Spanish-born American philosopher George Santayana once wrote, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” These words ring particularly true in Nepal, where many historical figures who shaped the nation remain overlooked or forgotten. With this Nepalese leaders are repeating the mistakes and error again and again.

One such figure is Sardar Bhim Bahadur Pande—a historian, diplomat, bureaucrat, and planner—who has finally received long-overdue national recognition, 34 years after his death. This week, the Government of Nepal issued a commemorative postage stamp in his honor.

A sixth-generation descendant of the legendary Kaji Kalu Pande, who was martyred in the unification of Nepal, Bhim Bahadur Pande played a vital role during Nepal’s transitional period from Rana autocracy to a modern democratic state.

As one of the first Nepalis to earn a master’s degree in commerce from India, he brought rare academic and administrative acumen to public service.

Working closely under the direction and collaboration of the highest authorities of the state, many individuals' contributions have gone unnoticed. Among them, Sardar Bhim Bahadur Pande played a pivotal role in shaping Nepal’s foreign policy, administrative framework, and civil service from the 1950s to the 1990s.

Alongside the late Vijaya Sumsher Rana—son of the last Rana Prime Minister, Mohan Sumsher Rana, and father of Pashupati Sumsher Rana—Pande was instrumental in drafting key foreign policies and treaties, particularly with India and the United Kingdom

Throughout his career, Pande served with distinction under the reigns of Kings Tribhuwan, Mahendra, and Birendra, contributing significantly to the shaping of Nepal’s foreign policy, civil service, and administrative structures from the 1950s to the 1990s. His published works, including Usbakhat Ko Nepal and Rastra Bhaktiko Jhalak: Panday Bamsa ko Bhumika, offer rich insights into Nepal’s political evolution and the legacy of the Pande family.

Despite his contributions, it took over three decades for the state to formally recognize his work. The delay reflects a broader pattern of historical neglect—his forebears, such as Damodar Pande and Kalu Pande, also met with tragic fates despite their patriotic service to the nation.

At a ceremony held on August 19, the Department of Postal Services unveiled the stamp bearing Pande’s image. Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, officially launched the stamp by affixing the first cancellation mark. “Postage stamps preserve our history and give national and international recognition to the legends who served the nation,” said the Minister, who is also the government’s spokesperson. “This practice will inspire the younger generation to honor the achievements of those who came before.”

Radhika Aryal, Secretary at the Ministry, praised Pande’s life and work as a continuing source of inspiration, while Manamaya Pangeni Bhattarai, Director General of the Postal Department, emphasized the importance of highlighting Nepal’s historic figures to preserve its legacy.

Pande’s middle son, Himalaya Bahadur Pande, who attended the ceremony with other family members, said the occasion was one of pride and emotional significance. “It feels like recognition not just for our father, but for our entire family and lineage.”

The legacy of Sardar Bhim Bahadur Pande lives on through his five sons, all of whom have made significant contributions to Nepal. General Sagar Bahadur Pande and Lieutenant General Pawan Bahadur Pande served in the Nepal Army.

Himalaya Bahadur Pande has been a key figure in promoting Nepal’s hydropower sector. Prithvi Bahadur Pande, a renowned banker and chairman of Nepal Investment Mega Bank Ltd., has supported the preservation of Nepal’s arts and culture. Dr. Shanta Bahadur Pande has also followed his father’s path in public service.

Although long overdue, the issuance of this stamp signals a positive shift. It reflects a growing willingness by the state to acknowledge and honor those who have laid the foundations of modern Nepal. Recognizing pioneers like Sardar Bhim Bahadur Pande is not only a tribute to the past—it is a guide for the future.