History of Nepal “Kirat Dynasty”
The Kirat dynasty is the third dynasty of Nepal, after the defeats of the Mahispal dynasty. Kirat represents the first recognized empire of Nepali history
Introduction
The Kirat dynasty is the third dynasty of Nepal, after the defeats of the Mahispal dynasty. Kirat represents the first recognized empire of Nepali history ruling the Kathmandu Valley and surrounding regions from roughly 800 BCE to 300 CE. The Kirat Dynasty is a significant chapter in the ancient history of Nepal, marking a period ruled by the Kirat people, one of the oldest known ethnic groups in the region. Their dynasty is believed to have governed Nepal for approximately 1,225 years. The Kirats originated from the eastern Himalayan region, with close links to the Limbu and Rai communities of present day Nepal. They are mentioned in ancient Indian texts like the Mahabharata and Purans.
Kings of Kirat Dynasty
No. |
Kings |
Years |
1 |
Yalamber |
40-50 |
2 |
Hriti |
30 |
3 |
Jitedasti |
40 |
4 |
Sthunko |
35 |
Kirat Dynasty rise
Long ago, a brave warrior prince named Ajiravat Kirat led his people into the Kathmandu Valley. At that time, the valley was ruled by a king called Gasti, who belonged to the Yakkha tribe. Ajiravat fought a tough battle with King Gasti and won. After this victory, the Kirat people took over the valley.
The Kirats made their homes on the valley's fertile land, while the Yakkha people moved to the edges of the mountains. Ajiravat families became rulers of the valley, and their children and grandchildren ruled for many generations. Even though times changed, the Kirats stayed an important part of the valley's history.
Social and cultural
The Kirat dynasty kingdom had a simple system of leadership. Different villages were ruled by chiefs, and their children would become leaders after them. The Kirats were a small group of rulers who came from East Asian origins. They mixed their culture with others, like the Yakkha, Licchavi, Sakya, and Newar communities. People in the lower groups of society were hunters, workers, and even musicians called Damai. The Kirats believed in nature spirits and followed shamanism, which connected them to the seasons and the natural world. They had festivals to thank their ancestors and celebrate the harvest. These festivals included music, dance, and carved wooden animal figures to honor their beliefs. The Kirats were also skilled in making sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses, which were some of the first in Nepal. Their way of speaking influenced the languages we hear in Nepal today, leaving behind words still used in Newar language.
Economic Sources
The Kirati kingdom economy was based on farming and making things by hand. Villages grew crops like rice and used extra food as payment for temples or to trade with others. Chiefs owned most of the land, but people shared some land to grow food for their communities. The Kirats also made tools from iron and other products to trade, which helped them grow stronger as a kingdom.
Trade Routes of kirat dynasty and its major Products
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The Kirats used mountain paths as trade routes.
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They traded goods like silk, spices, and salt from faraway regions.
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In exchange, they offered herbs, gems, clothes, and metals made locally.
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By managing these trade routes, the Kirati rulers gained power and wealth.
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These trade connections helped them build relationships with other regions.
Foreign economic ties in the period of kirat dynasty
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They sent salt and wool to nearby mountain areas to get special medicinal plants.
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They sold extra rice, iron, and rare plants to southern regions like Licchavi and Magadha.
Kirat Role in Shaping Nepal
Around 800 BCE, the Kirati kings became Nepal's first rulers, bringing together different Himalayan tribes. They built strong foundations for the country's society and government that still exist today.
The Kirats mixed their culture with others, created a better way of ruling, improved the economy, and introduced new spiritual traditions. These ideas became the building blocks of Nepal's growth as a nation. The Kirati kings played an important role in shaping Nepal's identity, and their influence is still felt today.
Conclusion
The Kirat Dynasty is a foundational chapter in the history of Nepal, marking a period of cultural, social, and economic development that shaped the nation. From their rise to power under Ajiravat Kirat to their contributions in governance, trade, and cultural fusion, the Kirats laid the groundwork for Nepal's evolution. Their integration of diverse communities, promotion of trade, and unique spiritual practices created a legacy that resonates in modern Nepalese society. The Kirati kings' leadership and vision helped establish a unified society, leaving an indelible mark on Nepal's identity and history.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ's)
1. Which is the oldest dynasty of Nepal?
Gopal and Mahispal dyansty is the oldest dynasty of Nepal
2. Who is the founder of the kirat region?
Mahaguru phalgunanda Lingden
3. Who was the ruler of kiratas?
Pulinda king
4. Who was the first king of Nepal?
Yalamber was the first king of Nepal
5. Who ruled after kirat dynasty?
The Lichhavie dynasty
6. How many years did kirat ruled ?
Kirat ruled about 1110 years
7. What is the holy book of kirat?
Mundum is the holy book of kirat
8. What is the main festivals of kirat religion?
Ubhauli and udhauli festivals
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