KATHMANDU – Hundreds of supporters and well-wishers gathered outside the residence of Nepal’s deposed monarch, Gyanendra Shah, on July 7 to celebrate his 78th birthday, marking the latest show of growing public support for the monarchy in the Himalayan republic.
Dressed in a brown suit jacket and traditional Nepali hat, Mr Shah addressed the crowd briefly, saying, “I am thankful to everyone who came.”
Nepal abolished its 240-year-old monarchy in 2008, following a decade-long Maoist insurgency and a democratic uprising that ended King Gyanendra’s rule. However, dissatisfaction over political instability, persistent corruption, and sluggish economic progress has sparked renewed monarchist sentiment in recent years.
Supporters lined the streets waving flags and holding banners, while others played traditional trumpets and drums in celebration. Mr Shah received flowers and offerings from the crowd as his grandchildren stood behind him.
“I wish him a long life and hope to see monarchy return soon,” said Prajuna Shrestha, a 33-year-old businesswoman. “We need a king because it was the monarchy that first unified Nepal. Politicians have ruined our country.”
Mr Shah ascended the throne in 2001, following the tragic palace massacre that claimed the lives of his brother, King Birendra, and most of the royal family. His reign coincided with the height of Nepal’s Maoist rebellion. In 2005, he controversially suspended the Constitution and dissolved Parliament, prompting mass protests that ultimately led to the monarchy’s abolition.
While Mr Shah remained largely silent on political matters in recent years, he has increasingly made public appearances, drawing large, enthusiastic crowds.
Nepal’s current Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, 73, began his fourth term in 2024 after forming a coalition with the Nepali Congress. Despite a fragile political climate, economic indicators have shown modest improvement. According to the World Bank, Nepal’s real GDP grew by 4.9% in the first half of FY2025, up from 4.3% the previous year, driven by recovery in agriculture and industry. Inflation has also eased to 5%, compared to 6.5% a year ago.
However, challenges remain, with more than 80% of Nepal’s workforce engaged in informal employment.