As a symbolic protest, burning an effigy of political leaders have been quite popular in Nepal. But, for the first time, I have felt the true use of such an practice. Actor Jiwan Luitel has burned an effigy of earthquake prepared by the women’s group in Shivanagar, Kalanki.

Although it seems like a superstition, it was used as the psychological treatment of the women and children of the area. The organizer, Women Development Committee, has found that the children and women were so afraid of earthquake that some were afraid of entering houses. The symbolic burning of the image of earthquake has brought relief on the people.