Manyakheta

Manyakheta is a fictional city in the fantasy world of Nirakar. It is often depicted as a political and cultural hub, serving as the capital of the eastern province of Vayara and a key node in regional trade and diplomacy.

Geography and urban layout

The city is described as being located at the confluence of the Suran and Thala rivers in the eastern lowlands. Its urban core comprises a walled Old City around a citadel, a busy Market Quarter aligned with a network of canals, and a modern administrative district to the north. The riverfront and canal routes are central to daily life and commerce, with bridges and ferries linking districts across water and land.

History

In the lore of Nirakar, Manyakheta traces its origins to the 9th century, founded by a trader-king to control river traffic and protect a growing marketplace. It expanded as a regional capital through successive eras, experiencing periods of prosperity and siege. A major reconstruction occurred after a great fire in the 14th century, resulting in a blend of stone and brick architecture that characterizes later cityscapes.

Economy

Manyakheta’s economy centers on textiles, spices, metals, and crafts, carried along river and canal routes to inland markets and coastal ports. The city hosts periodic trade fairs and rituals that attract merchants, scholars, and artisans from neighboring regions.

Culture and landmarks

The city is described as multilingual and religiously diverse, with public spaces designed to accommodate markets, processions, and scholarly gatherings. Notable landmarks often cited include the Great Gate, the Temple of Nila, the Royal Library, and the University Quarter, which together symbolize the city’s historical role as a center of governance, learning, and commerce.