Nang Keo Phimpha facts for kids

Nang Keo Phimpha (Lao: ນາງແກ້ວພິມພາ) (1343–1438) was a powerful figure in the ancient kingdom of Lan Xang. Her name is sometimes translated as "The Cruel." She was known by her special title, Maha Devi, which means "Great Goddess." This title was usually given to the most important queen of a ruling king.

Some historical records say she was the only woman to rule Lan Xang as queen. She held the throne for a short time in 1438. Before that, she was a very strong influence behind the scenes for about ten years. During this time, several kings were removed from power or died. She was a key player in these events, often choosing who would be the next king. She was removed from power and died at the age of 95.

Who Was the Maha Devi?

The true identity of the Maha Devi is a bit of a mystery. Historians and old records don't fully agree. Some say she was the oldest daughter of King Samsenthai. Others believe she was his younger sister or his main wife. Some even suggest she was his stepmother.

One important clue is her title, Maha Devi. This title was only for the most senior queen. Many historians think she might have been Keo Lot Fa. She was a queen of Fa Ngum, the first king of Lan Xang. She came from the Ayutthaya Kingdom (modern-day Thailand). If this is true, her age at the time of her death fits this idea.

Power Struggles and Kings

From 1428 to 1438, Lan Xang faced a big problem with who would rule next. This was because different groups at court wanted power. Many kings came and went very quickly during this time. The Maha Devi is believed to have played a big part in these changes.

During this confusing time, seven kings died or were removed from power:

• Phommathat (1428–1429) – died after 10 months.
• Yukhon (1429–1430) – died after 8 months.
• Khon Kham (1430–1432) – died after 18 months.
• Kham Tam Sa (1432) – died after 5 months.
• Lusai (1432–1433) – died after 6 months.
• Khai Bua Ban (1433–1436) – died after 3 years.
• Kham Keut (1436–1438) – possibly poisoned after 2 years.

There were several groups, or "factions," at court. One group was the old noble families from Muang Sua. They didn't like Fa Ngum when he first united the kingdom. Another group supported Fa Ngum. They were Lao and Khmer who helped him conquer lands. There were also groups from other kingdoms like Ayutthaya and Lan Na. These outside kingdoms wanted Lan Xang to be weak.

The Maha Devi's Influence

Historians agree that later in her life, the queen married a much younger politician. He became the Sen Luang, or Chief Minister, of the court. He was very powerful. Together, the Chief Minister and the Maha Devi were able to control the different groups at court. They did this by using their power and sometimes by removing kings.

It's not fully clear how much each of them was responsible for the deaths of the kings. However, historical records clearly show that the Maha Devi was the main force behind most, if not all, of these events.

After King Kham Keut died, some records say the Maha Devi herself became queen for a few months. But the court eventually grew tired of her actions. She and Chief Minister Xieng Lo were captured. They were taken to a place called Pha Dieo, by a river. There, they were left tied together in 1438.

After the Maha Devi died, there was no clear ruler for three years. A council of wise leaders and military members governed the kingdom. Finally, in 1441, Prince Vang Buri agreed to become the new king. He took the name Chakkaphat Phaen Phaeo.