Manuj Babu Mishra

Manuj Babu Mishra was a celebrated Nepali artist, writer, and polymath who made significant contributions to Nepal's art scene. Born on Janai Purnima in Mahankal, Boudha, Mishra passed away at the age of 83 due to a heart attack.
Artistic Career and Style
Graduated with a Bachelor's degree in fine arts from Dhaka in 1963.
Known for his surrealist style and use of symbolism in paintings.
Prominent motifs in his work included trisuls (tridents), horns, and rockets.
Created a famous rendition of the Mona Lisa, depicting her as a typical Nepali girl.
Literary Contributions
Wrote numerous books, essays, and short stories.
Notable works include "Mero Chitra Mero Chaya", "Swapna Sammelan" (a novel), and "Bishwakalako Itihas".
His autobiography, "Hermitage: Adhai Dashak Gufama", was his last known written work.
Later Life and Reclusion
Became reclusive after the 1991 People's Movement, rarely leaving his home.
Referred to himself as a hermit and lived in a residence he called "The Hermitage".
Continued creating expressive and critical works during his self-imposed isolation.
Recognition
Considered a pioneer of Nepali modernism in art.
His works were renowned both nationally and internationally.
The Nepal Academy of Fine Arts chancellor described his death as an "incompassable loss to Nepali art".
Manuj Babu Mishra's legacy is characterized by his unique blend of traditional Nepali cultural elements with modern artistic expressions, often addressing social issues and spiritual themes through his art and writing.