Mahendra Singh Rai (, also recorded as Mahindra Sinha Rai) was a Kirati chief associated with Chaukot near Dhulikhel (Wallo Kirat) during the Gorkha unification campaign of 1768 CE. Historical accounts describe him as the leader who resisted the advancing army of Prithvi Narayan Shah for about six months. Despite being advised by Nam Singh Rai to retreat because many villagers had fled, Mahendra Singh Rai chose to defend Chaukot. During the final battle, he was killed after being attacked from behind, and Chaukot fell to the Gorkhalis. The History of Nepal (Bansawali) praises his courage and records that Prithvi Narayan Shah ordered protection for his family after the battle. This episode remains an important example of Kirati resistance during Unification of Nepal.Daniel Wright (ed.) (1877). History of Nepal. Translated from the Bansawali by Munshi Shew Shunker Singh and Pandit Gunanand. Cambridge University Press. Chapter VIII: "Progress of the Gorkha Invasion". Ancient Nepal, Journal of the Department of Archaeology (Nepal), article discussing the resistance of Chaukot and Mahindra Simha Rai during the Gorkha unification. Iman Singh Chemjong. History and Culture of the Kirat People.
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