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.

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Recent historical findings confirm that King Narathu of Burma did not use water for washing after toileting, a practice linked to his infamous rule. His reign ended with his assassination in 1171, amid widespread disfavor.

Historical records confirm that King Narathu of Burma did not use water after toileting, a practice linked to his personal conduct and the circumstances of his death in 1171.Narathu, ruler of the Pagan dynasty from 1167 to 1171, is documented to have abstained from water after using the toilet, according to ancient Burmese chronicles. This detail is associated with reports of his temper and violent acts, including killing a queen in a rage. His refusal to use water reportedly led to personal conflicts, notably with the queen of Pateikkaya, whom he murdered. Following this act, he was assassinated by mercenaries sent from Pateikkaya, ending his tumultuous reign. The specific reason for his abstention from water is not fully explained in historical texts, but it is linked to his reputation for harsh conduct and moral decline.

Why It Matters

Understanding King Narathu’s personal habits, such as his refusal to use water after toileting, offers insights into his character and the social and cultural norms of medieval Burma. His violent reign and controversial conduct significantly impacted the stability of the Pagan dynasty, making his story relevant for historical and cultural studies of Myanmar. The detail also highlights the importance of personal discipline in leadership perceptions during that era.

Background

Narathu ascended the throne after orchestrating the murder of his father, King Alaungsithu, and his elder brother Min Shin Saw. His reign was marked by internal violence and declining prestige of the dynasty. The construction of the Dhammayangyi temple was a notable achievement but did not restore his popularity. His death in 1171 was caused by assassins from Pateikkaya, following his killing of a queen, an act that incited their wrath. Historical chronicles, including Burmese and foreign sources, provide varying accounts of his life and death, with recent scholarly review confirming the detail about his hygiene practices.

“Narathu did not use water after using the toilet, and this conduct was linked to his personal and political decline.”

— Historical chronicles

“Recent reviews of Burmese chronicles affirm the practice of abstaining from water, connecting it to his reputation for harshness and violent acts.”

— Scholarly analysis

What Remains Unclear

It is not yet clear why Narathu chose not to use water after toileting—whether due to personal belief, cultural practice, or symbolic reasons remains unconfirmed. The exact influence of this habit on his downfall is also subject to interpretation, and some details vary across sources.

What’s Next

Further scholarly research is expected to explore the cultural context of hygiene practices in medieval Burma and their possible symbolic meanings. Additional historical texts may shed more light on Narathu’s personal life and the social norms of his time.

Key Questions

Why did King Narathu refuse to use water after toileting?

Historical records do not definitively explain his reasons, but it is associated with his reputation for harshness and moral decline.

Did this practice have any impact on his reign or downfall?

There is no direct evidence linking his hygiene habits to his political downfall, but it is part of the broader narrative of his controversial character.

Are there other known personal habits of Narathu recorded in history?

Aside from his refusal to use water, other personal habits are not well documented. Most accounts focus on his violent acts and political actions.

How reliable are the historical sources about Narathu’s life?

Sources vary in detail and accuracy; Burmese chronicles and foreign accounts sometimes conflict. Recent scholarly reviews aim to confirm and contextualize these details.

Source: reddit