The Legacy of Queen Mal Nu and Maha Aung Mye Bonzan Monastery

The Historical Significance of Inwa (Ava)

Inwa (Ava) holds a prominent place in Myanmar’s history, having served as the royal capital four times between 1364 and 1751 CE, spanning nearly 400 years. The city played a crucial role in shaping the country’s political and cultural history. Among its many architectural and historical landmarks, one of the most remarkable is the Maha Aung Mye Bonzan Monastery, commonly known as Mal Nu Brick Monastery after its royal benefactor, Queen Mhan Nu.

The Construction of Maha Aung Mye Bonzan Monastery

Queen Mal Nu, consort of King Bagyidaw of the Konbaung Dynasty, commissioned the construction of the Maha Aung Mye Bonzan Monastery in 1818 CE. It was dedicated to Sayadaw U Boda, the highly respected abbot of Nyaung Kan Monastery, as an act of piety and devotion to Buddhism. The monastery was built using brick and stucco, rather than the traditional teakwood, making it unique for its time. This choice of materials was intentional—to ensure the structure's durability against fire, a common threat to wooden monasteries. The monastery was modeled after the traditional wooden monasteries of the Inwa period, incorporating multi-tiered roofs, grand arches, and intricate stucco carvings. The design featured elements of classic Konbaung-era architecture, including Jataka panels, floral motifs, and celestial beings carved into the walls. The monastery became a sanctuary for monks and an important center for Buddhist learning.

Destruction and Restoration

In 1838, a devastating earthquake struck Inwa, causing severe damage to many of its historic structures, including Maha Aung Mye Bonzan Monastery. The building remained in ruins for several decades until Mal Nu’s daughter, Princess Hsinbyumashin, undertook its restoration in 1873 CE. The repairs helped preserve the monastery as a remarkable example of Myanmar’s 19th-century monastic architecture, showcasing the resilience and dedication of the royal family to religious and cultural preservation.

Queen Mal Nu: A Controversial Figure in History

Queen Mal Nu was one of the most influential and controversial figures of the Konbaung Dynasty. She was known for her political ambition and involvement in courtly power struggles. She played a significant role in the internal conflicts of the Konbaung court, particularly concerning succession disputes. Her political maneuvering and influence over King Bagyidaw made her a formidable force within the royal palace. However, her involvement in palace intrigues and alleged conspiracies led to her downfall. After King Bagyidaw was dethroned and replaced by King Tharrawaddy, Queen Mal Nu faced accusations of orchestrating the deaths of royal princes who were seen as threats to her faction. As a result, she was sentenced to death.

The Execution of Queen Mal Nu

Upon receiving the decree for her execution, Queen Mal Nu requested one final wish—to visit Sayadaw U Boda at Mal Aung Mye Bonzan Monastery, the very monastery she had built. The request was granted, and she went to pay her respects to the revered monk. When she confided in Sayadaw U Boda about her impending fate, he calmly told her: “Mi Nu, if one has debts, they must be repaid.” With deep reverence, Queen Mal Nu accepted these words as her final lesson in karma and fate. She did not resist or beg for mercy but instead followed the royal guards with dignity and composure. She was taken to Mal Bayat Hill, near the northeastern corner of Taungthaman Lake, where she was drowned as per the royal decree. Her tragic end remains one of the most well-documented royal executions in Myanmar’s history.

Maha Aung Mye Bonzan Monastery Today

Despite its association with political turmoil, Maha Aung Mye Bonzan Monastery stands as a lasting tribute to Queen Mal Nu’s contributions to Myanmar’s cultural and religious heritage. Today, it remains a popular historical site, drawing visitors who come to admire its architectural beauty and learn about its fascinating past. The monastery's intricate stucco carvings, grand corridors, and arched windows continue to be a testament to the artistic mastery of the Konbaung period. Maha Aung Mye Bonzan Monastery is not just an architectural landmark; it is a symbol of devotion, resilience, and the impermanence of power. Queen Mal Nu’s story serves as a reminder of the ephemeral nature of political influence and the enduring legacy of cultural and religious contributions.