Ghanta Ghar: A Symbol of Time and Modernity
There are countless treasures hidden in the Kathmandu valley that contribute to its charm, but some of them often go unnoticed. It's only when the bells strike that people stop to look up and marvel at a magnificent clock tower that does much more than simply show the time. Standing tall in the heart of the city, the Ghanta Ghar of Kathmandu is a remarkable relic that speaks volumes about the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Its towering presence and intricate design have made it a popular landmark and a symbol of modernization, while also serving as a meeting point for locals and tourists alike. In this article, we will delve deeper into the history and significance of the Ghanta Ghar and explore why it continues to be a fascinating attraction that must be seen by anyone visiting Kathmandu.
The history of Ghanta Ghar in Kathmandu dates back to the early 20th century when Nepal was under the rule of the Rana dynasty. The Rana rulers were known for their love of grand architecture and monuments, and they were also keen on modernization.
In 1909, the then-Prime Minister of Nepal, Chandra Shumsher Rana, visited Europe and was impressed by the clock towers he saw in various cities. Upon his return, he decided to construct a similar tower in Kathmandu. The idea was to have a tower that would serve as a timekeeper for the city and also symbolize Nepal's modernization.Construction of the Ghanta Ghar began in 1930 under the direction of the chief engineer, Kishore Narsingh Rana. It took four years to complete, and the tower was inaugurated by Prime Minister Juddha Shamsher Rana on April 1, 1934.The Ghanta Ghar was designed by the architect, Kishore Narasingh Rana, who was also responsible for designing many other important buildings in Nepal, including the Singha Durbar Palace, which is now the administrative center of the Nepalese government.
The tower is made of bricks and cement and has a distinct architectural style that blends traditional Nepalese and European elements. The four clock faces on the tower were manufactured in England by Gillett & Johnston, a company known for producing clocks for prominent buildings around the world. Over the years, the Ghanta Ghar has become a significant landmark and a symbol of Kathmandu. The tower has withstood several earthquakes and other natural disasters and has undergone several renovations and repairs to maintain its structural integrity.
The Ghanta Ghar clock tower in Kathmandu has undergone several renovations over the years, but the original style of construction is still evident in many aspects of the tower. The original tower was built using bricks, wood, and mud mortar. However, during the recent renovation, concrete was used to strengthen the foundation and framework of the tower. The size and shape of the original Ghanta Ghar clock tower was slightly different compared to the current tower. The tower's size was increased during the renovation to accommodate larger bells and improve its visibility. The clock faces of the original Ghanta Ghar tower had Nepali numerals, just like the current tower. However, during the recent renovation, the clock faces were restored to their original condition and the numerals were painted in gold. The original Ghanta Ghar clock tower had 12 bells, while the current tower has 16 bells, which are made of brass and were brought from London.
Even though it was conceived as a desire to mirror the Big Ben of London in Kathmandu, it created its own identity, importance and value. The Ghanta Ghar is an important treasure of Kathmandu that doesn't just tell time but is a symbol of Nepal's transition from the feudal era to a modern democratic state. It has witnessed significant events in Nepal's history, including the 2015 earthquake, and has stood the test of time as a resilient and enduring symbol of Nepali culture and heritage. The Ghanta Ghar clock tower continues to attract tourists and locals alike, who marvel at its beauty and learn about its historical significance. As one of the few remaining heritage sites in Kathmandu, the Ghanta Ghar clock tower is a testament to the city's rich and diverse cultural heritage, and a reminder of the importance of preserving it for future generations to appreciate and admire.