History of Nepal “Mahispal Dynasty”

Introduction

The Mahispal dynasty is the second dynasty of Nepal. The origin of Mahispal dynasty is  from Madhya Pradesh. They belonged to the Rajput Family and they were entitled to be kings. They began to move northward gradually and eventually arrived in Nepal's Terai Region. They made their home in the center of the Tirhut and Mithila kingdoms. Abhir Mahispals is another name for the Mahispal Dynasty.Abhir refers to a race found in North-West and West India. The Mahabharat and other Puranic texts even make reference to them. According to some, they are even the direct descendants of the Yadav Clan and Lord Krishna.

The name Mahispala roughly translates to "protectors of the land of buffaloes" (Mahisha means buffalo, and Pala means protector or ruler). According to historian Kirkpatrick, the Mahispal Dynasty, led by Bar Singh, became the second to rule Nepal after a bloody conflict with the Gopal Dynasty. Bar Singh thus became the Mahispal Dynasty's first king.

Lifestyle of Mahispal Dynasty 

The lifestyle of the Mahispala dynasty, as concluded from mythological and historical texts like the Puranas, Mahabharata, and Ramayana, reflects the socio-political and cultural practices of ancient Indian kingdoms.

1. Governance 

The Mahispala kings were powerful rulers who governed from their capital, Mahishmati. The role of a king is not to protect the territory or to run the administration but also to be deeply involved in Dharma. In that era, to help with governance and decision-making, the king probably had advisors.

2. Armed Lifestyle

The Mahispala dynasty, especially under rulers like Kartavirya Arjuna, was known for its militaristic strength. Warriors were trained in archery, swordsmanship, and other martial arts. They used advanced weapons and war animals, such as elephants and horses, for battles.

3. Economy 

The fertile lands around Mahishmati made agriculture a primary economic activity.  Mahishmati located near to the Narmada River made it easier to trade with other areas for commodities like metals, textiles, and spices. The dynasty probably provided support to regional artisans who made weapons, jewelry, and ceramics.

4. Social Formation 

The Kshatriyas were the dominant social class in this warrior dynasty. Brahmins served as the kings' administrative and spiritual advisors, demonstrating how religion was incorporated into politics.The majority of people were farmers, traders, and craftspeople who lived in harmony peacefully under the king's watch.  

5. Spiritual and Religion 

The Mahispalas were devoted devotees of Hindu gods, specially Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. King Kartavirya Arjuna is renowned for his devotion to Lord Dattatreya, a divine power who represents knowledge and direction. Kings conducted grand rituals and yajnas (Ritual slaughter ceremonies) to ensure prosperity and divine favor.

6. Decline and Cultural Legacy

The dynasty's decline after conflicts with Lord Parashurama marked a shift in power dynamics. However, the cultural and spiritual practices of the Mahispala dynasty left a lasting legacy in central India's history.

Kings of Mahispal Dynasty 

Learn about Gopal dynasty

Mahispal Dynasty Border 

The Mahispal Dynasty was bounded to the east by the River Dudhkoshi, to the west by the Trishuli, to the north by the Nilkantha, and to the south by Chitlang. During the Mahispal Dynasty, not much changed along the border.

Additionally, the Gopal and Mahispal Dynasties shared the same habitats. Throughout the Mahispal Dynasty, not much progress was made.

Last kings of Mahispala Dynasty 

Bhuwan Singh was the final monarch of the Mahispal Dynasty, ruling Nepal for 41 years. Additionally, the Kirat Dynasty made its way to the Kathmandu Valley from East Nepal. Because of the Great Commander Yalung, also known as Yalamber, the Kirat Dynasty won in a war against the Mahispal. As a result, the Kirat Dynasty overthrew the Mahispal Dynasty and became the Third Dynasty to govern Nepal. Following the defeat of the Kirats, Nepal was ruled by the Lichhavi Dynasty, which was most likely founded by Jayadeva.

Conclusion 

In the context of Nepalese history, the Mahispala dynasty does not have a direct, documented presence, as it is primarily associated with ancient India, particularly in the central region around the Narmada River (modern-day Madhya Pradesh). The Mahispalas are often considered a semi-mythological dynasty, with their capital, Mahishmati, mentioned in several ancient texts such as the Mahabharata and the Puranas. However, some connections can be made indirectly through the cultural exchange between ancient kingdoms of India and Nepal. The Mahispala dynasty, known for its military strength and patronage of Hindu rituals, may have influenced neighboring regions, including Nepal, as the spread of Hinduism and its royal practices from India reached Nepalese rulers over time. While there is no direct evidence that the Mahispala dynasty ruled over Nepal, their cultural and religious practices likely had an impact on the broader Indian subcontinent, which included Nepal.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQ's)

1. How many Mahispala or Abhir kings ruled the Kathmandu Valley?

Three kings of Mahisapala dynasty ruled the valley before they were overthrown by the Kiratas.

2. Which dynasty is known as the Golden Age in the history of Nepal?

The Lichchhavi period

3. Who was the first Kirat king of Nepal?

Yalambar

4. Which city is known as Yala?

Lalitpur 

5.  What was the main religion of the Mahispal dynasty?

The Mahispala kings were devout followers of Hinduism, particularly worshipping Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. King Kartavirya Arjuna was also known for his devotion to Lord Dattatreya, a deity representing knowledge and guidance.

6. Who was the first king of the Mahispal dynasty?

The first king of the Mahispal dynasty was Bar Singh, who ruled for 49 years. He became the king after a bloody conflict with the Gopal Dynasty.