SKIRMISHER

Bishweshwor Chaudhari had his followers distribute thousands of pamphlets last month forecasting that an earthquake that would kill 300,000 people would strike at 6.15 am on June 22 and last until July 10. But when Friday came and went without the slightest tremor, city residents — who were angry probably because the prophet merely raised their hopes of dying violently in a cataclysm — rushed to Mr Chaudhari’s house and beat him up, declaring him a charlatan and demanding that he be punished. Police intervened and detained him for disturbing the peace.

Please somebody give these people the earthquake they want.

The incident illustrates how deeply superstitious much of Nepal remains and how easy it is for the unscrupulous to exploit the millions of Nepalis who have little access to basic education and healthcare.

Nepal is one of the poorest countries in the world, but the predominantly Hindu nation also has one of the highest tallies of religious festivals and holidays — including several to mark solar eclipses.

Mr Chaudhari gave up his job as a builder three years ago and moved to Kathmandu, where he set himself up as a holy man. He grew his hair long, wore a crown and flowing yellow robes, and claimed to have divine powers. He also claimed to be able to heal the sick with a trident.

Stumble it!