As written by her brother, Mr. Dhan Kaji, in the Dharma Ratna Smriti Grantha
I was thirteen years old when our mother, Heera Maya, passed away. Heera Devi was only seven. From that time, she suffered from Gandhamal (tuberculosis of the glands). Despite multiple surgeries to treat the affected glands around her neck, chest, and armpits, she endured pain for nearly nine years. Her body remained weak and frail, and the wounds could not heal. Yet, even through her suffering, she continued her studies under Jagat Lal Master of Masan Galli, Keltole, Kathmandu.
Unable to bear her suffering, I sought help and approached Bhaju Ratna Kansakar, a business merchant, who took her for treatment in Calcutta. Doctors saw little hope due to the extensive damage to her skin, but I refused to give up. She was later sent to Kalingpong, where under intensive care, including massages in the sun, she recovered within one and a half years.
After returning to Nepal, Heera Devi devoted herself to helping those suffering from critical hardships and fiercely fought against the Rana regime. Born into a wealthy family that revered rulers as gods, she became a revolutionary, convincing even affluent individuals of the need to revolt against tyranny.
I first met Dharma Ratna Yami in Lhasa, at the business center of Dhaman Sahu, where Pandit Rahul Sanskrityan was also present. Dharma Ratna’s father died tragically by suicide, and despite being advised to recover the family’s money, Dharma Ratna refused, declaring, “I am not going to run after money.” Returning to Nepal during the regime of Juddha Samsher J.B. Rana, he opened a soap shop in Bhota Hiti, Asan Tol. The shop, however, became a secret meeting place for underground political activists, leading to his arrest and a jail sentence of 18 years, from which he was released after six years.
After his release, proposals for marriage with Heera Devi were sent, but her family rejected them, citing Dharma Ratna’s lack of property and his perceived atheism. Yet, Heera Devi refused to consider wealth as a factor and married Dharma Ratna in B.S. 2002, without informing her family. She was initially banned from entering her parental home and was only welcomed back after Dharma Ratna became a minister.
Life of Hardship and Sacrifice
Following her marriage, Heera Devi endured extreme hardship. She survived on wild Himalayan nettle (Nhayekan Kwati), buffalo bone soup, and minimal food, while teaching children of farmers and butchers. Even during pregnancy and childbirth, she faced severe deprivation.
While Dharma Ratna went underground for his political activities, he visited her in disguise, carrying earthen pots on his back. Heera Devi continued her work as Chairperson of Mahila Sangh, was arrested while delivering speeches, and endured torture in custody, including threats to her children. Despite offers of money and high-ranking positions from the regime, she remained steadfast, protecting underground activists and assisting Ganesh Man Singh.
Her relentless efforts and sacrifices laid the foundation for Dharma Ratna’s political career. He became a minister shortly after the birth of their daughter, Timila. Even the King Tribhuvan consulted Dharma Ratna on village visits, acknowledging his leadership.
Final Years and Legacy
Years of starvation, risk, and hardship led to Heera Devi’s heart disease and asthma, causing her untimely death at the age of 48. Despite her illness, she ensured the family’s property was handed over to Dharma Ratna’s brother, Sangha Ratna, which has now been converted into the Himalayan Lodge.
Heera Devi’s life stands as a testament to courage, selflessness, and unwavering dedication. She not only fought for political change but also transformed lives through her compassion, education, and tireless support of those around her. Her legacy remains an inspiration, a model of bravery, and a true national heroine.