Thousands of pro-monarchy supporters in Nepal gather at Tribhuvan International Airport demanding the return of King Gyanendra – March 2025.

The Rise of Nepal’s Pro-Monarchy Movement: Calls for the Return of King Gyanendra

Introduction: The Growing Pro-Monarchy Sentiment in Nepal

Nepal’s pro-monarchy movement is gaining momentum as thousands of people demand the restoration of the monarchy and the return of King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev to power. The dissatisfaction with Nepal’s federal democratic system has fueled the resurgence of monarchist sentiment, with many blaming the republic for political instability, corruption, and economic decline. The recent mass gathering of pro-monarchists at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport on March 9, 2025, marks a significant turning point in Nepal’s political landscape.

Who is King Gyanendra?

Birth and Early Life
Born: July 7, 1947 (Age: 77 years)
Birthplace: Narayanhiti Royal Palace, Kathmandu, Nepal
Parents: King Mahendra of Nepal and Indra, Crown Princess of Nepal
Family and Personal Life
Spouse: Queen Komal of Nepal (Married in 1970)
Children: Paras Shah, Prerana Shah Singh
Grandchildren: Princess Purnika of Nepal, Hridayendra Shah, Kritika Shah
Siblings:
King Birendra of Nepal (Elder Brother)
Prince Dhirendra of Nepal (Younger Brother)
Princess Sharada Shah of Nepal (Sister)
Education
Tribhuvan University

Why Are Nepalis Demanding the Return of the King?

Since Nepal transitioned from a monarchy to a republic in 2008, the country has struggled to establish a stable political system. Many citizens believe that the republic has failed to address key national issues, leading to a growing demand for the return of the monarchy. Some of the main reasons behind this pro-monarchy wave include:

1. Political Instability in Nepal

Nepal has had 13 governments in the last 17 years, highlighting the country’s ongoing political turmoil. Frequent leadership changes, internal party conflicts, and governance failures have led many to believe that Nepal’s multiparty democracy has failed. Monarchists argue that Nepal was more stable under the Shah monarchy and that restoring the king could bring back order and discipline to governance.

2. Economic Crisis and Unemployment

Many Nepalis blame the current system for Nepal’s economic crisis, inflation, and rising unemployment. Since the abolition of the monarchy, Nepal’s economy has struggled to achieve significant growth. The departure of King Gyanendra in 2008 was followed by an era of widespread corruption, inefficient governance, and increased foreign dependency, leaving many Nepalis frustrated with the country’s direction.

3. Corruption and Mismanagement

Corruption has become one of Nepal’s biggest challenges in the republic era. Political leaders have been accused of embezzling public funds, engaging in nepotism, and failing to deliver on promises. The perception that the monarchy was less corrupt than the current democratic system has fueled calls for its reinstatement.

4. Cultural and Religious Identity

Nepal was the world’s only Hindu kingdom before it became a secular state in 2008. Many Hindu nationalist groups believe that Nepal should return to its roots as a Hindu monarchy. The demand for a Hindu Rashtra (Hindu Nation) has grown, with many associating the monarchy with Nepal’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Pro-Monarchist Rally at Tribhuvan International Airport

On March 9, 2025, Kathmandu witnessed one of the largest pro-monarchy rallies in recent years. As former King Gyanendra returned from western Nepal, an estimated 10,000 royalists gathered at Tribhuvan International Airport, chanting slogans like:
“Vacate the Royal Palace for the King!”
“Long Live Our Beloved King!”
“We Want Monarchy! Save Nepal!”
Despite the peaceful nature of the protest, riot police were deployed to prevent demonstrators from entering the airport premises. The event highlighted the growing public discontent with Nepal’s current government and reinforced the monarchy’s enduring popularity.

The History of Nepal’s Monarchy and King Gyanendra’s Rule

King Gyanendra was crowned in 2001 following the tragic Nepalese Royal Massacre, in which King Birendra and his entire family were killed under mysterious circumstances.
From 2001 to 2005, Gyanendra ruled as a constitutional monarchy with limited powers.
In 2005, he seized absolute power, citing the need to eliminate Maoist insurgents.
This move led to nationwide protests, forcing him to hand over power to a multi-party government in 2006.
In 2008, Nepal officially became a republic, abolishing 240 years of the Shah dynasty.

Is Nepal Ready for the Return of the Monarchy?

With widespread political dissatisfaction, many Nepalis now believe that abolishing the monarchy was a mistake. Here’s what could happen next:

1. Nationwide Protests for the Restoration of the Monarchy

Pro-monarchy groups have been organizing rallies across Nepal. If these movements grow stronger, the demand for a referendum on monarchy restoration could gain political traction.

2. Political and Legal Challenges

Nepal’s current constitution (2015) does not recognize monarchy, meaning that reinstating King Gyanendra would require constitutional amendments or a public referendum.

3. Role of International Influence

Countries like India, China, and the USA have a vested interest in Nepal’s political stability. Their stance on Nepal’s pro-monarchy movement could significantly influence its outcome.

Final Thoughts: Can King Gyanendra Make a Comeback?
The demand for monarchy restoration in Nepal is stronger than ever, with thousands of Nepalis expressing their frustration with the republic. Whether King Gyanendra will return to power remains uncertain, but the growing support for monarchy cannot be ignored.