On May 29, 2025, tens of thousands of protesters gathered in Kathmandu, Nepal, calling for the reinstatement of the monarchy and the former king as head of state. The demonstrators, waving flags and chanting slogans, also demanded the restoration of Hinduism as the state religion.
The protest took place in the heart of Kathmandu, with participants moving through the main circle in the capital. Meanwhile, only a few hundred meters away, supporters of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli assembled to celebrate Republic Day at the exhibition grounds. To prevent clashes, hundreds of riot police maintained separation between the two groups, with authorities scheduling rallies at different times.
Nepal abolished its monarchy in 2008, transitioning to a republic with a president as head of state. However, supporters of the former king, Gyanendra Shah, argue that corruption among politicians has hindered national progress. They believe that reinstating the monarchy and declaring Nepal a Hindu state will restore stability and prosperity.
One protester said, "Bring king back to the throne and save the country. We love our king more than our lives." Pro-monarchy advocates plan to continue their demonstrations until their demands are met. Previous protests in March turned violent, resulting in the death of two individuals and multiple arrests.