MEDIA UPRISING: Compared to 1990, the 2006 Kathmandu Spring was conducting in full glare of media. Demosntrators battled riot police and went home to watch themselves on the evening news.

Media highlighted the confrontation and played up visuals of pitched street battles. But although there were many more protesters in the streets, 2006 was more restrained and the casualty levels much lower.

MIN BAJRACHAYRA

The demonstrators infront of Singha Darbar in 1990(top) were replaced by motorcyclists queueing for petrol when curfew was lifted briefly in 2006 (below).

The primitive riot gear of police in 1990 was replaced by full ninja regalia by 2006 (below).

KIRAN PANDAY