Nepal, Dec. 30 -- In the long history of our land, women like Bhrikuti and Sita were among our earliest messengers of peace. When they crossed mountains and borders, they didn't go as silent objects; they carried the heart of Nepal with them, building bridges of culture and spirit that lasted for centuries. They were the threads that tied us to the world with dignity and love. But today, that warmth has turned into something cold and hard. The threads of love have been replaced by the steel crates of a mechanical transaction. We are now packing up our living heritage-the very soul of our forests-and sending them away to the scorching sands.

Where Bhrikuti and Sita travelled to weave spirits together, elephants Rudrakali and Khagendra Pra...