Divided Nepal
Ragini Upadhayay Grela, 2009
Acrylic on canvas
95 × 80 cm

© Ragini Upadhyay Grela

Political confusion and selfishness among politicians has resulted in divisiveness among the Nepalese people. The pregnant cow, represented in the picture, symbolizes the future of Nepal. Fire, and the technology necessary for electricity brings no light, and the future of light itself has been consumed by darkness. The lion is shown holding the legs of the divided cow – the divided country, and represents the lust for power. Stupa, the broken Buddha, shows that peace is in question. The expression of the living goddess, depicted in one of the corners, shows surprise and sadness as she witnesses how this situation impacts upon the culture and the country as a whole.