On March 9, 2025, the streets of Kathmandu were flooded with approximately 10,000 pro-monarchy supporters, all rallying to welcome former King Gyanendra Shah back to the capital. This significant public event marks a resurgence of support for the restoration of Nepal’s monarchy, which was abolished in 2008. The demonstrators, who also called for Hinduism to be reinstated as the state religion, gathered at Tribhuvan International Airport, blocking access to the terminal and causing disruptions. Despite the large crowd, the rally remained peaceful under heavy police surveillance.
Rising Frustration with the Republican System Kathmandu
The growing support for reinstating the monarchy is largely driven by the public’s dissatisfaction with the current republican system. Since Nepal transitioned to a republic, the country has faced ongoing political instability, with 13 different governments in power over the past 17 years. Citizens are increasingly frustrated with the government’s failure to address economic challenges and political corruption.
Many Nepalis believe that the current political structure has been unable to deliver on promises of stability and prosperity. As a result, even some individuals who once opposed the monarchy are now reconsidering their stance. A former protester against the monarchy told The Times of India that he believes reinstating Gyanendra Shah as king could provide the leadership needed to address Nepal’s persistent issues, such as economic stagnation and political gridlock.
The Push for Restoring Hinduism as the State Religion
In addition to calls for the monarchy’s restoration, the rally was also marked by demands for Hinduism to be reinstated as Nepal’s state religion. Prior to 2008, Nepal was officially a Hindu kingdom, and many of the demonstrators see the monarchy as a key part of the country’s cultural and religious identity. The abolishment of the monarchy also brought an end to the official status of Hinduism, leaving many traditionalists longing for a return to what they see as Nepal’s true roots.
A report from Al Jazeera noted that these pro-Hindu and pro-monarchy sentiments have been gaining momentum, especially in recent months, following Gyanendra Shah’s Democracy Day statement. His speech, delivered in February, sparked renewed public debate about the role of the monarchy in Nepal’s future.
Gyanendra’s Silent Stance on Monarchy Restoration
Although Gyanendra Shah has not publicly commented on the growing calls for his reinstatement, his presence in Kathmandu has added fuel to the pro-monarchy movement. Many supporters view him as a unifying figure capable of restoring stability to the nation. However, political analysts are skeptical about the feasibility of reinstating the monarchy.
According to CNN, constitutional barriers and strong opposition from mainstream political parties make it highly unlikely that the monarchy will be restored anytime soon. Critics argue that Nepal’s political issues are deeply rooted in governance and corruption, and that the monarchy is not a viable solution to these problems.
Political Parties Respond to the Pro-Monarchy Movement
Mainstream political parties in Nepal have expressed concern about the growing support for monarchy restoration. Leaders from major parties, including the Nepali Congress and the Communist Party of Nepal, have urged citizens not to be swayed by pro-monarchist rhetoric. They argue that the monarchy is a relic of the past and that Nepal’s future lies in strengthening its democratic institutions.
A report from The Kathmandu Post highlighted the challenges that political leaders face in addressing the concerns of pro-monarchy supporters without alienating their core voter base. Political analysts believe that the current movement is more a reflection of dissatisfaction with governance than a genuine desire for monarchical rule.
A Complex Political Future for Nepal
The future of Nepal’s political landscape remains uncertain. While the pro-monarchy rallies demonstrate a growing discontent with the current system, it is unclear whether this movement will translate into real political change. The restoration of the monarchy would require significant constitutional amendments, and the chances of Gyanendra Shah returning to the throne seem slim at this point.
However, the public’s frustration with corruption, political instability, and economic hardships cannot be ignored. As Nepal continues to grapple with these challenges, the debate over the monarchy’s role in the country’s governance is likely to intensify in the coming years.
For more insights on the political situation in Nepal, check out The Informed Gazette’s analysis on how the country’s instability is affecting its citizens.
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