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Friday, January 14, 2011

Lichhavis and their cultural History

        Krats king ruling in the Kathmandu valley where gradually suppressed by Lichhavis. The rulers of Vaishali established a new state in the Himalayas in the early centuries of the christen era. They were lichivis. During this period a cultural metamorphosis of sorts took place. Some off shot of the lichhivis started to worship Pashupati.  Some idols were worshipped as Siva in some form. Later, pashupati worshipped by Buddhists as avalokitsuara. During the period of Lichhavs had already established feudal patterns brought Aryan Brahmanic tradition? The Sanskrit language and also artistic feature from India. Hinduism and Buddhism   were practiced side by side and they influenced the culture of the valley.
Two major factors are responsible for the prolific   development of cultural during the Lichhavi Period. First Lichhivis rulers were not only tolerant of all ideas, religious and thoughts but also patronized all work of art and culture liberally. Second they maintained their kingdom as a trade route between India, Tibet and China and Kathmandu becomes the center of trade. Other factors that shared and contributed to the promotion and development of culture in the Kathmandu valley was agriculture. The valley replaced the practice of the shifting cultivation and the people become settled agriculturists. Geometrical farming knowledge is reflected in the temple architecture as well as in the iconography of Nepal. More ever abundant crops in the valley gave artisans ample resources and leisure to indulge in art and festivities. By the beginning of the 15th century, the Lichavis had established an absolute monarchy in the valley. Institutions were set up to regulate and govern the liaison between the ruler and the ruled. Religious congregations as well as panchalika enjoyed.
Women were highly respected in the society. They took part in social- activities. Rajyavatti the mother of Mandeva used to take interest even in administrative matters. She was a great source of inspiration to the golden period of the History of Nepal.
*    Monument of the Lichhavis
The political border of Nepal was extended greatly during the period. In order to run the administration they built monumental building like kailashkut Bhaban and Managrina.
*    Administration system
Although the king was the final authority, suggestions were sought from people. A king of Minister existed and the country was divided into several administrative units power was decentralized. Justice was carried out through the legal codes.
*    International relation
The lichhavis had very good relation with India, Tibet, and China. The marriage of the princes Bhrikuti was a good step. During this period culture, religion, society and art influenced the lifestyle of the people.
*    Religion system
Salvaism and Buddhism coexisted in the society. The lichhavis were Hindus but did not prohibit Buddhism. The king had respect for all religious. Many Temple were constructed stone taps, well, roads, and monasteries were also constructed in many places.

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