Revisiting Nepal’s royal massacre through books

Jestha is the month when summer reaches its peak. In Nepal, this month holds deep symbolic weight for its citizens—especially for two reasons: Jestha 15, the day Nepal was declared a republic (Ganatantra), and Jestha 19 the day the legitimate monarchy officially came to an end due to an unfortunate royal massacre, Marking the beginning of a new era.

I often hear some Nepal intellectuals say, “The monarchy had to end one way or another. It was inevitable.” Curious as ever, I cross-question them: Do you genuinely believe Dipendra killed everyone that night in his madness? Or do you subscribe to one of the many conspiracy theories floating in the city? Each person has their version, their separate narrative. No wonder Yuval Noah Harari said that stories are the foundation of civilisation. This city, “Kathmandu,” cradled by mystic mountains, is a breeding ground for legends, secrets, and conspiracies, especially surrounding the royal palace.