New Books in Anthropology
Political Mythmaking in Nepal
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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Quick takeaways
- Political myths in Nepal obscure historical realities and reinforce existing power structures, presenting them as natural and inevitable phenomena.
- The interplay of caste, gender, and indigeneity significantly influences power dynamics, challenging the notion of meaningful political change despite reforms.
Deep dives
Political Myths in Nepal's Landscape
Political myths in Nepal serve as ideological narratives that shape the understanding of politics while obscuring their historical constructions. For instance, the narrative surrounding the nation-state in Nepal is framed as one of a homogenous governance system, which disregards the complexities of its colonial past. This myth minimizes the historical realities experienced by various ethnic groups, particularly in how ruling elites aimed to govern through the established Hindu state order. Such myths allow contemporary power structures to appear natural and destiny-driven, while in reality, they serve to maintain existing hierarchies and social orders.
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