The ousted Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli referred the example of Kaji Bhim Malla to indicate how his 'good' work is undermined.
History often remembers kings and conquerors, but sometimes it is the stories of loyal ministers and their tragic fates that live on in the hearts of people. One such tale from Nepal’s past is that of Kaji Bhim Malla, a trusted minister of the Malla court in Kathmandu. His life was filled with loyalty and achievement, yet his death left behind a chilling curse that still lingers in Nepalese memory.
A Rising Star in the Malla Court
In the 17th century, under the rule of King Lakshmi Narasimha Malla, the bustling city of Kantipur (today’s Kathmandu) was a center of politics, trade, and power struggles. Among the ministers of the royal palace, Bhim Malla shone brightest. Known for his wisdom and courage, he quickly rose to become one of the king’s most trusted men.
Bhim Malla was no ordinary minister. He was a strategist, a negotiator, and above all, a patriot. People admired him for his bold decisions and his ability to safeguard the interests of the kingdom.
The Brave Conqueror
Stories tell us that Bhim Malla conquered Dolakha, a key town along the trade route to Tibet. His victories did not stop there - he marched further, crossing the mountains into Tibetan lands. At Kuti and even close to Shigatse, he proved Nepal’s strength and fearlessness.
But Bhim Malla was more than a warrior. He was a shrewd diplomat. He struck agreements with Tibet that protected the rights of Nepali traders, ensuring that if a Nepali died in Tibet, their property would be returned safely to their families. Such victories strengthened Kathmandu’s economy and cemented Bhim Malla’s reputation as both protector and visionary.
The Shadow of Jealousy
Yet, as often happens in royal courts, success breeds jealousy. Other ministers, envious of his growing influence, began whispering against him. They poisoned the king’s ear with suspicions - that Bhim Malla harbored ambitions to seize the throne.
The king, swayed by conspiracies, forgot years of loyalty and service. In a tragic twist, Bhim Malla was sentenced to death.
The Sati’s Curse
The story takes an even darker turn after his execution. Heartbroken and unable to live without her husband, Bhim Malla’s wife chose the path of sati, leaping into the flames of his funeral pyre.
But before she perished, she uttered words that still echo in Nepalese lore:
“From this court, justice shall vanish. Honest men will always fall prey to conspirators.”
This chilling curse, known as the Sati’s Curse, became part of the nation’s folklore. For centuries, people have looked back at Nepal’s frequent palace intrigues and betrayals and recalled her words.
A Legacy That Lives On
Though centuries have passed, the story of Kaji Bhim Malla has never faded. His bravery, loyalty, and tragic end are retold as lessons about the dangers of jealousy and the fragility of justice. The curse itself has become a symbol - a reminder that when truth and loyalty are cast aside, nations suffer.
Even today, leaders and thinkers invoke Bhim Malla’s story when speaking about corruption, betrayal, or the need for justice. His life stands as both inspiration and warning.
Conclusion
The tale of Kaji Bhim Malla is not just a chapter in Nepal’s history - it is a story of devotion, betrayal, and an eternal curse. He was a minister who gave everything for his king and country, only to be undone by palace conspiracies. His wife’s final words turned his personal tragedy into a national legend.
In the echoes of that legend, Nepal continues to find lessons about loyalty, justice, and the perils of unchecked ambition.
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