The idea behind ,"Shackled" is that a lot of people lead unhappy or uninspired lives because they are restricted by their own thoughts and insecurities. However, I truly believe that everyone finds a few instances in their lives where they find the strength and spirit to fight their demons and take that leap of faith.
Here is something I wrote that describes this painting and together, they celebrate the amazing human spirit.
http://anusharanganathan.blogspot.com/2016/01/of-fears-and-cynicism.html