In the heart of the Himalayas, a political and cultural resurgence is subtly gaining traction — a movement that seeks to restore Nepal’s centuries-old Hindu monarchy, dissolved less than two decades ago. Nepal, formerly the world’s sole Hindu kingdom, is now on its path to reclaim its lost title. After centuries of monarchy, Nepal transitioned into a democratic republic in 2008 following a decade-long communist-led civil war. Since then, communist parties have ruled Nepal for 14–15 years over the past 17 years. After nearly 2 decades of communist rule blemished by rampant corruption, inefficiency, and poor governance, people have begun voicing the return of their king. In this piece, we’ll look at the history of political transitions, their causes, repercussions, and the potential future outlook.
THE FALL OF THE KING : FROM MONOCRACY TO DEMOCRACY
The collapse of the monarchy in Nepal is a dramatic historical narrative marked by civil conflict, royal tragedy, popular rebellion, and ideological upheaval. Nepal was ruled by the Shah monarchy since 1768. In 1990, Nepal was ruled by King Birendra under a party-less system where the king held absolute power. However, in the same year Nepal witnessed a massive Jan Andolan, forcing King Birendra to accept constitutional monarchy and multi-party democracy. In 1996, the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) declared a “People’s War” to abolish the monarchy and establish a republic. This effort led to a bloody insurgency that would endure for 10 years, resulting in over 17,000 casualties, mostly civilians. The event took a drastic turn on June 1, 2001, when the royal massacre occurred. The palace massacre claimed the lives of King Birendra and the majority of his royal family. Crown Prince Dipendra allegedly shot them before committing suicide.
Consequently, Gyanendra, the king’s brother, took the throne. In 2005, King Gyanendra dismissed the elected government and seized direct control, citing the failure to control the Maoists. This move backfired and sparked mass protests. In April 2006, millions hit the streets in a 19-day non-violent uprising. Under immense pressure, King Gyanendra reinstated Parliament and relinquished power. Finally, in November 2006, the government and Maoists signed the Comprehensive Peace Accord, formally ending the civil war and declaring Nepal a democratic republic. Gyanendra vacated the Narayanhiti Palace peacefully. The former royal family lost their titles and privileges. Nepal entered a prolonged transitional phase marked by political instability and constitution-draughting challenges. The fall of the monarchy ended centuries of hereditary rule but also left a vacuum. While democracy was established, many Nepalese remain disillusioned with governance.
RESURGENCE OF THE ROYALIST FERVOUR: RETURN OF THE HINDU MONARCHY
In recent years, there has been a surge to reinstate the monarchy, especially among youth and conservative segments of society. Peaceful marches led by organisations such as the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) and various pro-monarchy groups regularly draw thousands. The former Crown Prince Paras Shah, once viewed controversially, has resurfaced on the public stage, often greeted by throngs of supporters during his travels. The slogan “Raja Aauna Parcha” (The King Must Return) has become a rallying cry for many disillusioned with democratic governance. Frustration with political parties, especially their failure to deliver stability or development, has led people to romanticise the monarchy as a more orderly and dignified institution. Many regard the monarchy as a symbol of national unity, transcending party politics.
The idea for a Hindu state coincides with the monarchist revival. Proponents argue that Nepal’s shift toward secularism and republicanism was influenced by foreign NGOs and Western interests. Many believe secularism and republicanism have been imposed without public consent, robbing Nepal of its cultural and national identity. This religious undercurrent has gained momentum in rural areas, where people associate the monarchy with tranquility, tradition, and cultural continuity. Moreover, post-2008 transition, the failure of successive governments regarding infrastructure, employment, inflation, etc., has led some to rethink the decision to abolish the monarchy. In a nation divided by ethnic, regional, and political rivalries, many see the monarchy as a neutral, unifying institution that once represented all Nepalese. Today, the monarchy is considered a guardian of the sovereignty and cultural identity of Nepal, a bulwark against foreign interference.
THE WAY FORWARD
The return of Nepal’s monarchy remains unlikely in the foreseeable future due to its entrenched republican system. However, the burgeoning royalist movement reflects widespread disillusionment with political instability and a desire for cultural continuity. This resurgence reflects a greater awakening rooted in faith, heritage, and a quest for national unity — a “Nepal renaissance”. India, though ostensibly neutral, observes this trend with interest. While New Delhi supported Nepal’s republican transition, the shift led to strained bilateral ties and a rise in communist influence. This, in turn, has expanded China’s presence in Nepal due to ideological alignment, often at India’s expense. Historically, the monarchy maintained a balanced stance between India and China, contributing to regional stability. Advocates of the monarchy’s return also see it as part of a wider South Asian cultural resurgence, particularly within the context of rising Hindu identity. The movement thus carries both domestic and geopolitical significance.
