TIL about Narathu, a medieval King of Burma. Narathu did not use water to wash himself after using the toilet and his Queen did not want to be near him as a result. In anger, he killed her using his bare hands. The Queen’s father sent a group of 8 assassins who killed Narathu in revenge.

Historical accounts suggest that King Narathu of Burma did not use water after using the toilet, a detail linked to his unpopularity and violent death during his reign from 1167 to 1171.

King Narathu, ruler of the Pagan dynasty, is historically noted for his violent rise to power, including murdering his father and elder brother to ascend the throne. During his reign, he is said to have abstained from using water after toilet use, a practice that reportedly caused friction with his court and consorts, notably the Pateikkaya queen. This behavior is attributed to his reputed anger and possibly contributed to his unpopularity among his subjects and court officials.

According to historical sources, including chronicles, Narathu’s conduct, including his refusal to use water, was part of broader behaviors that lowered his prestige. His reign ended violently when he was assassinated by Indian mercenaries sent by the king of Pateikkaya in 1171. Some scholars, such as Wilhelm Geiger, have questioned certain details of these accounts, but the narrative about his water abstention remains part of Burmese historical tradition.

Why It Matters

This detail about Narathu’s refusal to use water highlights aspects of his personality and reign that contributed to his negative reputation. Understanding these behaviors provides insight into the cultural and personal factors influencing leadership in medieval Burma. The story also underscores how personal habits and perceived misconduct can impact political stability and legacy in historical contexts.

Background

King Narathu’s reign was marked by violence and controversy, including the murder of his family members and building the Dhammayangyi temple. His reputation has been shaped by chronicles that emphasize his cruelty and unorthodox behaviors. The detail about not using water after toilet use appears in traditional Burmese sources and has been discussed by historians examining his character and the decline of his dynasty.

“It is said that Narathu did not use water after using the toilet, and that the Pateikkaya queen did not let him come near her as a result.”

— Historical chronicles

“It is hardly doubtful that the report in the Culavamsa of the Ramanna campaign is much exaggerated, as the Burmese chronicles have nothing to say about such a catastrophe having overtaken their country.”

— Wilhelm Geiger

What Remains Unclear

It is not yet confirmed whether the detail about Narathu not using water is historically accurate or a later embellishment. Some scholars consider it a symbolic or anecdotal element rather than a verified fact. The impact of this behavior on his reign and death remains speculative.

What’s Next

Further research into Burmese chronicles and archaeological findings may shed light on the accuracy of this detail. Scholars may also explore how personal habits influenced leadership perceptions in medieval Southeast Asia.

Key Questions

Is it true that King Narathu did not use water to wash?

Historical sources suggest this claim, but its accuracy is debated among scholars. It remains part of traditional accounts of his character.

Why is this detail about water use significant?

It is believed to reflect Narathu’s personality traits and possibly contributed to his unpopularity and violent death, illustrating how personal habits can influence historical reputations.

Are there other unusual behaviors attributed to Narathu?

Yes, chronicles also mention his violent rise to power, murder of family members, and building of the Dhammayangyi temple, which are key aspects of his controversial reign.

What is the historical source for this claim?

The claim originates from Burmese chronicles and traditional accounts, with some scholars questioning its reliability.

Source: reddit