Singha Durbar: Rise and Fall of the Rana Regime of Nepal

by Sagar S.J.B. Rana

The Ranas of Nepal were de facto rulers of the kingdom for slightly over a century, reigning as prime ministers of the state, with the king as a figurehead. Their rule, while bringing stability to a fraught empire, has also been criticized for economic and religious excesses, and for tyranny. Now, for the first time, a descendant of the Rana clan opens up about his family, setting right certain historical misconceptions, and offering an honest critique of what was one of the most vital periods in the history of Nepal which drew to a close in 1951.

Frank, forthright and utterly balanced, Singha Rise and Fall of the Rana Regime of Nepal is one of the most important historical accounts to have been published on the Himalayan kingdom in recent years.

Genres: History

460 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2017

Reviews

[Surabhi Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Singha Durbar’ illustrates the history of the beautiful and troubled land of Nepal. The land has the fascinating, high and lush peaks of the Himalayas. The book narrates the history of the land of Prince Siddharth who later renounced his status to lead an ascetic life and founded Buddhism and came to be known as Gautam Buddha.

The book is written by a descendant of the Rana clan. The period is among one of the most vital parts in the history of the country. The author presented a detailed material regarding the pre-Rana history in Nepal and also the Rana regime founded by Jung Bahadur.

This is a wonderful book for history readers and all those who are interested in knowing one of the episodes of history which covered more than a century of Nepal. The book also is an excellent read for historians and students. This book is as detailed as it needs to be and as brief that it won’t take ages to read and apprehend the ‘Rise and Fall of the Rana Regime of Nepal’.

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[Jyotsna Marasini · Rating 3 out of 5]

Singha Durbar is a historical account of the 104 years long tyrannical Rana oligarchy of Nepal. The narrative gives readers opportunity to interpret the intentions of the rulers behind their nasty acts without adding any catalysts. Some parts of the narratives are able to make readers uncomfortable; the direct words from the related personnel have added the authenticity to the book.

It must be hard to stay neutral while being a direct descendant of the clan but the author has maintained quite an honest ground. But still, the author's inclination towards BP's ideology can be felt in his narration.

The only part of the book when I felt a need of explanation was when the Communist clan refused to join the revolution under the leadership of Nepali Congress. If the reason was stated then the book would have been more fair, as the lack of explanation in itself felt like a rather negative annotation of the communist leader.

Overall, it's an informative book on accounts of the inception of revolution in Nepal, the rise of Nepali Congress, and the bitter-sweet equation of Indo-Nepal relationship.

[Badal Babu Bhattarai · Rating 4 out of 5]

A must read for anyone interested in modern Nepali history.

Author takes your through a journey starting from Sahas' conquest of Kathmandu valley, rise of Jung Bahadur, and Sumsher brothers and finally their fall. Wonderfully written with mention of key events.

While there are chaptes dedicated to each Rana prime minister, it is focused mainly on the fall of regime and struggles involved. So, if you want to learn about specific reforms during the period or detailed economic, social and political issues this is not the read.

[Sakar Jung Thapa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book written by a man with the perspective of both sides .. Has a brief information on the Rana regime mixing the textbook stuff with exicting insider stories and anecdotes .. Highly informative and entertaining 👌

[Dirghayu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Singha Durbar details the rise and fall of the Rana dynasty in Nepal, from Jung Bahadur Rana’s ascent to the eventual collapse of the dynasty in 1951. The book provides insights into the workings of the Rana prime ministers, the Rana family, and the origins of the Nepali Congress. It offers a compelling account of how the regime fell due to internal discontent within the family, the actions of pro-democracy activists, and the political maneuverings of neighboring India. However, a notable concern is that the writer’s sympathies toward the Rana family are evident throughout the work, which might influence readers’ perceptions of the historical narrative. Additionally, the book omits detailed coverage of the role of Nepalese communists and the royal palace in the historical context.

[Simran Silpakar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Balanced narrative! The author has definitely plotted history in a way that shows the both sides of a coin starting from Rana oligarchy to democratic movements which revolve not only in Nepal but Calcutta, and Banaras. The plots of 1939 chaturmaas held in Asan by Civil Rights Committee, martyrs, revolutionary events of Calcutta and Banaras, and Koirala family's life background were super intriguing. The author has done quite a painstaking work presenting the chronological events of Nepal with respect to regional geopolitics. If I could remember 30% of what this book shares about not only Rana but Nepal's history, I would be more than extremely pleased! B.P. Koirala would have been pleased to read it too.

[Pransu Khakurel · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing read to highlight the rise and fall of Rana Regime which is to be ready by history enthusiasts. The comprehensive, unbiased presentation of the events from both Rana and Non-Rana politicians make it one of the kind given SSJBRs background, also giving a very balanced perspective.

Highly recommended!

[Joe · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a well written and interesting account of Nepal's political leadership during the Rana regime. The book unfortunately does not cover anything of their influence after the fall of the regime 65 years ago. It also seems to be a surprisingly balanced and fair narrative.

[Sujan Shrestha · Rating 3 out of 5]

The writer has written this book with detailed research, no doubt a good book what I hated most about this book was abbreviation, had to go back and find out the meaning again and again

[Suraj Chhatry · Rating 5 out of 5]

good read about Nepal history

good read about Nepal history . Enjoy the historical Nepal and Rana rule had lasted 100 years.

Enjoy the read

[Trisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

So it's alright, was extremely boring at some part but ay that's history 🤷🏻‍♀️