Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Known for their skilled craftsmanship, the Newars ruled Nepal for
two dynasties. The reign of Newar rulers left their mark on Nepal,
as Hinduism grew and a new calendar was established, along with
a caste system. Here, members of a Newar band carry traditional
metal pots and beat drums to celebrate the Newari new year 1128, in
Kathmandu, on November 10, 2007.
(B.S.), was developed during this period, but with a beginning
date 57 years earlier than the Christian calendar (57 B.C. on the
Western calendar). However, the period suffered from several
raids by Mughal empires located to the south, in India. The
worst blow occurred in 1345-1346. A raid under the direction
of Sultan Shamsudﾭdin Ilyas of Bengal devastated all major reliﾭ
gious shrines and resulted in the widespread looting of properﾭ
ties and jewels.
Jayasthiti Malla, a popular king of the Malla period, unified
the major principalities in the valley by 1374. Furthermore,
he contributed greatly to the shaping of Nepalese culture,
including its society, religion, and political administration.
So influential were his deeds that today's Nepalese continue
to follow many of the practices he introduced. He is credited
with having established Nepal's first complete codification of
