Introduction – The Royal Guardians of Bishnupuriya’s Legacy

The history of Bishnupuriya is deeply intertwined with the Malla dynasty, a powerful lineage of kings who ruled the region for centuries. These kings were not only warriors and administrators but also visionaries who shaped Bishnupuriya’s cultural and spiritual identity. Their reign saw the construction of grand temples, the flourishing of Vaishnavism, and the promotion of literature, art, and music.

From the earliest Malla rulers to the later kings who embraced Bhakti traditions, each monarch contributed to the glory of Bishnupuriya. Their patronage transformed the region into a center of religious devotion, artistic excellence, and linguistic development. Even today, the legacy of these kings is preserved through the monuments, festivals, and traditions that continue to thrive in Bishnupuriya.

This section explores the great kings of Bishnupuriya, their achievements, and their impact on history.

1. Early Malla Kings – Founders of a Glorious Dynasty

The Malla dynasty is believed to have originated in the medieval period, rising to power as warrior rulers who expanded their territory and established Bishnupuriya as a strong and prosperous kingdom. The early Malla kings were known for their military strength and administrative abilities, ensuring that the region flourished under stable governance.

During this period, the foundations of Bishnupuriya’s artistic and architectural traditions were laid. The rulers encouraged sculptors, musicians, and poets, setting the stage for the cultural renaissance that would come in later centuries.

Key Contributions of Early Malla Kings:

• Established Bishnupuriya as a political and cultural center.

• Built the first temples and religious institutions that promoted Hindu traditions.

• Strengthened the kingdom’s economy through trade and agriculture.

These rulers laid the groundwork for the golden age of Bishnupuriya, which would emerge under later kings.

2. The Golden Age – The Rise of Vaishnavism and Terracotta Art

The 16th and 17th centuries marked a golden era for Bishnupuriya. Under the rule of King Bir Hambir and his successors, the region experienced unparalleled spiritual and cultural growth. The influence of Vaishnavism, particularly the teachings of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, transformed the kingdom into a sacred land of Bhakti (devotion).

During this time, Bishnupuriya became famous for its terracotta temple architecture, with the construction of iconic temples such as the Madan Mohan Temple, Shyam Rai Temple, and Rasmancha. These temples were adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu epics, showcasing the artistic brilliance of Bishnupuriya’s craftsmen.

Key Achievements of the Golden Age:

• Embraced Vaishnavism as the official religious tradition of the kingdom.

• Constructed grand terracotta temples, making Bishnupuriya a center of temple architecture.

• Encouraged the creation of Vaishnavite literature and poetry, including works like Prem Vilas.

• Promoted classical music and devotional kirtans, enriching Bishnupuriya’s artistic traditions.

This era solidified Bishnupuriya’s reputation as a cultural and spiritual powerhouse, attracting scholars, poets, and devotees from across India.

3. The Later Malla Kings – Challenges and Cultural Preservation

By the 18th and 19th centuries, Bishnupuriya faced political and economic challenges, including external threats from colonial powers and shifting trade patterns. Despite these difficulties, the later Malla kings worked tirelessly to preserve their heritage.

They focused on restoring temples, supporting Vaishnavite traditions, and ensuring that the legacy of their ancestors was not lost. Even as political power declined, Bishnupuriya’s artistic and religious culture remained strong, thanks to the enduring efforts of these monarchs.

Key Contributions of the Later Malla Kings:

• Preserved and restored historical temples, ensuring their survival for future generations.

• Encouraged the practice of traditional arts, music, and storytelling, keeping Bishnupuriya’s culture alive.

• Resisted colonial influences while maintaining the kingdom’s spiritual and cultural identity.

Though the later Malla rulers faced difficulties in maintaining their kingdom’s political dominance, they ensured that Bishnupuriya’s traditions remained intact. Today, their legacy lives on in the festivals, language, and artistic expressions of Bishnupuriya’s people.

Complete List of Bishnupuriya Kings

Here is the detailed list of all 56 kings who ruled Bishnupuriya across various dynasties:

Malla Dynasty Kings

1. 1. Adi Malla (694–709 A.D.)

   2. Joy Malla (709–720 A.D.)

   3. Benu Malla (720–733 A.D.)

   4. Kinu Malla (733–742 A.D.)

   5. Indra Malla (742–757 A.D.)

   6. Kanu Malla (757–764 A.D.)

   7. Dhaw Malla (764–775 A.D.)

   8. Sura Malla (775–795 A.D.)

   9. Kanaka Malla (795–807 A.D.)

   10. Kandarpa Malla (807–828 A.D.)

   11. Sanatan Malla (828–841 A.D.)

   12. Kharga Malla (841–868 A.D.)

   13. Durjan Malla (868–906 A.D.)

   14. Jadava Malla (906–919 A.D.)

   15. Jagannath Malla (919–931 A.D.)

   16. Birat Malla (931–946 A.D.)

   17. Madhava Malla (946–977 A.D.)

   18. Durgadas Malla (977–994 A.D.)

   19. Jagat Malla (994–1007 A.D.)

   20. Ananta Malla (1007–1015 A.D.)

   21. Rupa Malla (1015–1029 A.D.)

   22. Sundara Malla (1029–1053 A.D.)

   23. Kumud Malla (1053–1074 A.D.)

   24. Krishna Malla (1074–1084 A.D.)

   25. Rup Malla II (1084–1097 A.D.)

   26. Prakash Malla (1097–1102 A.D.)

   27. Pratap Malla (1102–1113 A.D.)

   28. Sindhura Malla (1113–1129 A.D.)

   29. Sukhamoy Malla (1129–1142 A.D.)

   30. Banamali Malla (1142–1156 A.D.)

   31. Jadu Malla (1156–1167 A.D.)

   32. Jiban Malla (1167–1185 A.D.)

   33. Ram Malla (1185–1209 A.D.)

   34. Gobinda Malla (1209–1240 A.D.)

   35. Bhim Malla (1240–1263 A.D.)

   36. Kattar Malla (1263–1295 A.D.)

   37. Prithwi Malla (1295–1319 A.D.)

   38. Tapa Malla (1319–1334 A.D.)

   39. Dinabandhu Malla (1334–1345 A.D.)

   40. Kanu Malla II (1345–1358 A.D.)

   41. Sura Malla II (1358–1370 A.D.)

   42. Shiva Sing Malla (1370–1407 A.D.)

   43. Madan Malla (1407–1420 A.D.)

   44. Durjan Malla II (1420–1437 A.D.)

   45. Udaya Malla (1437–1460 A.D.)

   46. Chandra Malla (1460–1501 A.D.)

   47. Bira Malla (1501–1539 A.D.)

   48. Dhari Malla (1539–1587 A.D.)

   49. Beera Hambeera (1587–1620 A.D.)

   50. Dhari Hambeera (1620–1626 A.D.)

   Singha Dynasty Kings

   51. Raghunath Singha (1626–1656 A.D.)

   52. Beera Singha (1656–1682 A.D.)

   53. Durjan Singha (1682–1702 A.D.)

   54. Raghunath Singha II (1702–1712 A.D.)

   55. Gopal Singha (1712–1748 A.D.)

   56. Chaitanya Singha (1748–1802 A.D.)

Conclusion – The Everlasting Influence of Bishnupuriya’s Kings

The kings of Bishnupuriya were more than rulers; they were visionaries who built an empire of faith, art, and learning. Their patronage of Vaishnavism, temple architecture, literature, and music transformed Bishnupuriya into a symbol of cultural brilliance.

Even today, their legacy is honored in the magnificent temples, devotional literature, and grand festivals that continue to define Bishnupuriya’s identity. Their contributions ensure that Bishnupuriya remains an essential chapter in India’s historical and cultural narrative.

As we walk through the ancient streets of Bishnupuriya, visit its grand temples, and listen to its sacred hymns, we are reminded of the great rulers who shaped this land into a beacon of devotion and artistic excellence.

The legacy of Bishnupuriya’s kings will never fade—it will continue to inspire and guide future generations, keeping the spirit of this historic civilization alive forever.