When we think of Nepal, we generally imagine beautiful mountains, bustling festivals, and elaborate temples. But hidden deep within the nation’s cultural structure is a gem that few people, including Nepalis, consider: the Ranjana script. This old writing system, once an important part of Nepal’s heritage, is on the risk of disappearing.
Ranjana script is more than just a writing medium; it is an artistic, cultural, and historical leftover that connects Nepal’s past and present in unique ways.
What is the Ranjana Script?
The Ranjana script is a highly stylized and elegant form of writing that originated in Nepal. It was invented by the Kathmandu Valley’s Newar community, most likely during the Licchavi period (4th to 9th century CE), but came to popularity during the Malla period (12th to 18th century CE). The script, which was primarily used to write Sanskrit, Newar (Nepal Bhasa), and religious writings, developed into a crucial component of spiritual and academic traditions.
The phrase “Ranjana” is derived from the word Ranja, which means “delightful” or “charming”—an appropriate the name for its flowing curves and beautiful loops that transform words into visual beauty.
Decline of the Ranjana Script
With the development of the Devnagari script during Nepal’s modernization and the rise of English as the world’s lingual, the use of Ranjana declined. Over time, the writing became limited to religious and ceremonial uses, losing its practical application in everyday life.
Today, less and fewer people are fluent in reading and writing Ranjana, and the majority of the younger generation is unaware of its existence.
Image Source: Twitter
Revitalization Efforts
Despite its decline, there is a rising effort to preserve and restore the Ranjana script. Activists, scholars, and groups are working to reintroduce it in various ways.
Education: Workshops and online classes now teach the script to fans and young students.
Digital Revival: The Ranjana script has been encoded in Unicode, allowing it to be used digitally.
Art and Architecture: Modern artists and architects have incorporated Ranjana characters into paintings, advertising, and even tattoos.
Why Does the Ranjana Script Matter?
Reviving the Ranjana script is more than just maintaining an ancient writing system; it also protects Nepal’s identity, artistic past, and cultural diplomacy. Ranjana represents Nepal’s multilingual legacy and historical influence throughout Asia, reflecting the combination of language and art that has formed the country’s intellectual and spiritual traditions.
The Future of Ranjana Script
In order to prosper, Ranjana must find a place in modern society. Integrating it into education, public spaces, and technology will help to ensure its survival and relevance. More than just preserving a script, reviving Ranjana aims to inspire future generations to embrace Nepal’s cultural past and proudly share its artistic and intellectual accomplishments with the world.
Read More: The Mystical Streets of Patan, A Journey through Time
