As Nepal approaches another critical moment in its democratic journey, the specter of monarchy has re-emerged, spurred by the return of former King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah to Kathmandu. On the eve of his arrival, royalists rallied in support, echoing their desire for a constitutional monarch amidst growing political unrest and discontent with elected leadership. This resurgence invites contemplation about Nepal’s identity and governance, questioning whether nostalgia for the past can blend with aspirations for a democratic future.
Kathmandu, Nepal – On February 13, 2026, former King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah arrived in the capital, Kathmandu, from Jhapa, a district in southeastern Nepal, to a raucous reception ahead of Valentine’s Day. Thousands of supporters warmly welcomed him with chants of “Raja aau, desh bachau!” (“Come back, king, save the country!”), mirroring a sentiment shared by royalist factions within the country. This marked the latest expression of nostalgia for monarchy in a nation that has significantly struggled with governance since the royal institution was abolished in 2008.
In a captivating video message shared four days later, coinciding with Nepal’s Democracy Day, the 78-year-old Shah articulated his “unwavering sense of duty and responsibility” toward a nation experiencing profound distress. He asserted that Nepal is currently enduring one of its most challenging periods in history, advocating for national consensus before proceeding with elections scheduled for March 5. His remarks have intensified discussions about the royal institution’s potential return amidst enduring loyalty among some sections of society who reminisce about the stability of the monarchy.
Since the abolition of the 239-year-old monarchy, Nepal has been characterized by political instability, leading to the formation of 14 governments and the tenure of nine prime ministers. The political landscape has been dominated by the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) and the Nepali Congress, with rapid shifts in power. However, the landscape began to shift last September when a youth-led movement sparked a challenge to traditional political structures, culminating in the establishment of an interim government.
Public sentiment about the monarchy remains complex, shaped by the experiences of several generations. The Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), a political entity advocating for the restoration of a constitutional monarchy, has witnessed a modest uptick in political support, winning 14 out of 275 seats in the 2022 parliamentary elections. RPP leader Rabindra Mishra argues that a consensus is necessary to navigate Nepal’s political challenges, suggesting postponement of elections until a national dialogue occurs.
While critics frame Shah’s reemergence as a tactical maneuver in a bid to regain relevance, others perceive it as a reflection of a longing for stability in uncertain times. Political analysts such as CK Lal suggest that Shah may hope to remain influential should the political tide shift once more, illustrating the complexities that linger from an era of absolute monarchy.
Shah’s return ignites a broader discussion around the monarchy and its place in contemporary Nepal, especially as the RPP describes it as a “guardian institution” vital for national unity. Mishra argues for a ceremonial monarchy devoid of governance power, stating that it could provide symbolic strength in turbulent times. In contrast, opponents like Baburam Bhattarai contend that the idea of reinstating the monarchy conflicts with Nepal’s secular identity and diverse cultural landscape.
Critics also note the dangers of conflating national stability with monarchical power, reinforcing the belief that democracy and societal challenges can only be addressed through inclusive governance. The notion of restoring Nepal as a Hindu state, advocated by the RPP, remains contentious, with defenders of secularism emphasizing the need for a state that respects all religious identities.
As the nation reflects on its past, the enduring allure of monarchy among certain demographics underscores the complexity of Nepalese identity. While many younger citizens may view the monarchy as antiquated, the historical ties to a unifying symbol remain alive, probing the boundaries between nostalgia and the future aspirations of a republic still grappling with democratic ideals.
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