New Books in Anthropology Political Mythmaking in Nepal
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Apr 18, 2025 Join Ankita Shrestha, a human geography PhD from the University of Oslo, as she delves into the intriguing world of political mythmaking in rural Nepal. She uncovers how political myths shape perceptions of power and history, obscuring truths about colonial legacies and governance. Listen as she examines the intertwined roles of caste, gender, and indigeneity, highlighting the challenges faced by marginalized communities. With a critical lens, she discusses the paradox of Maoism and its impact on Nepalese politics, offering fresh insights on the landscape's evolving dynamics.
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Political Myths Hide History
- Political myths are ideological narratives that obscure their historical origins, making power hierarchies seem inevitable.
- In Nepal, myths hide colonial histories replaced by the idea of a sovereign nation-state ruled by dominant social orders.
Maoist War's Personal Impact
- Ankita grew up during Nepal's Maoist People's War, witnessing demonstrations and violence involving marginalized groups.
- Her firsthand experience shaped her question on whether the movement achieved its goals after federalization in 2015.
Myths Perpetuate Power Hierarchies
- Caste, indigeneity, and gender politics in Nepal perpetuate social hierarchies and domination under the state's logic of power.
- Political myths maintain these divisions by keeping minorities locked in endless struggles within the existing power framework.