King Pratap Malla – the Artistic Raja

History and heritage are the main tourism attractions in most countries. The ancient grand civilizations and kingdoms is what the tourists come to see. Yet we fail to properly acknowledge the contributions of our ancestors. What we have received from the past pales in comparison to any present-day tourism contributors.

One such magnanimous personality of Nepal who has given us a plethora of tourist attractions was King Pratap Malla (1624-1674). His highness ruled Nepal in its glory days when Kathmandu was a prosperous economic and cultural hub. A highly favorable trade treaty with Tibet monopolized Nepal’s control over trade in the region placing Kathmandu as a pivotal city in South Asia after Delhi.

Just like Shah Jahan beautified India during this time period, Pratap Malla did the same for Nepal.

As the tourist steps out in the city, the most prominent sightseeing places have contributions of the great King.

The heart of Kathmandu, the Basantpur Durbar Square was his mastermind. The Hanuman Dhoka Palace was expanded with ten courtyards and many temples. The royal family of Nepal lived here until 1886. The palace gets its name from the huge stone Hanuman placed at the gate which has the inscriptions of Pratap Malla.

In front of the palace is the most famous benchmark of the area, the world’s largest stone sculpture of Kal Bhairav. Bhairav is Lord Shiva in his wrathful form and it is one of the most demonic images ever seen and thus a memorable tourist capture.

The most famous landmark of Kathmandu, the Swayambhunath Stupa has prominent landmarks built by the King – the two Shikhara-style white temples – Pratapur and Anantapur, and the huge bronze golden Vajra that is strategically on top of the 367 steep steps. This was his homage to Nepal’s most famous temple.

The big bronze bull in front of Pashupatinath Temple, Guheshwori Temple, Surya Vinayak Temple near Bhaktapur, Dakshinkali in Pharping and Rani Pokhari in Kathmandu are among his most notable works.

Next time you go out and see these jewels of the city, do thank Pratap Malla. These were his gifts for posterity. After nearly 400 years, we still admire these timeless landmarks and benefit from them.