Manohara Durbar: Historical Significance, Heritage Vulnerability and Conservation Challenges in Kageshwori Manohara Municipality

Abstract

Manohara Durbar, a Rana architecture in Kageshwori Manohara Municipality, Kathmandu, built in 1879, experienced a transformation from an aristocratic residence to a place of political imprisonment before its final destruction. Despite of its historical significance, there is still of scholarly research gap on the structural and institutional preservation issues associated with it. This qualitative study, based on Nora's cultural memory theory, explores this palace's historical significance, vulnerability, and conservation challenges. The author gathered data through historical documents, field observations, and planned interviews with local Rana elders and descendants. According to the thematic analysis, the primary cause of its destruction was political dispute. In order to protect the remaining historical preservation in the Kathmandu Valley, the findings identify the architectural heritage as a crucial pillar of community identity. They conclude with urgent policy recommendations for municipal historical preservation and heritage conservation policies.