Maharani: Dismantling Maharani Myth

Abstract

This paper makes a review of Chandra Prakash Baniya's Madan Puraskar winning novel, Maharani (2019). Written in local colour, the book is a historical fiction that unveils an untold history of the Parbat Rajya (one of the 24 states before the unification of modern Nepal by Prithvi Narayan Shah). The main story revolves round the rivalry of two siblings, Bhadribam and Malebam for the ascendency to the throne. Bhadribam is elder by conception whereas Malebam by birth. As per the prevailing practice, the royal court decides in favour of Malebam. Bhadribam rebels. Vishwaprabha becomes victimized in the rivalry. Despite being engaged with Malebam, she gets ready to marry Bhadribam. Even after having Vishwaprabha, Bhadribam continues to plot against Malebam for the throne. Vishwaprabha spoils his conspiracy and saves the Parbat Rajya. In recognition of this, Malebam offers her the title of Maharani. Soon, Maharani becomes a recluse and goes missing. The people of Beni and the neighbouring areas worship her as a goddess. Baniya dismantles this myth of goddess Maharani by simply taking her as a brave patriotic lady.