Monarchy Momentum: Nepalese Gather in Thousands to Hail Former King

Mar 10, 2025

Thousands of pro-monarchists rallied in Kathmandu on March 9 to welcome former King Gyanendra Shah upon his return from Pokhara. Supporters from the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) and other pro-monarchy groups chanted slogans against the current political system. Authorities fortified Tribhuvan International Airport, restricting access. Nepal abolished its constitutional monarchy in 2006 after People’s Movement II, leading to Gyanendra’s abdication. The RPP, advocating for kingship and a Hindu state, secured 14 seats in 2022. With Nepal’s 81.19% Hindu population, the monarchy’s revival remains a subject of debate.