Kathmandu — Former King Gyanendra Shah has released a rare video message warning of growing national challenges, choosing to speak on Prithvi Jayanti, a day that commemorates Nepal’s unifier, Prithvi Narayan Shah. The timing has added symbolic weight to the message, drawing wide public attention given Gyanendra’s long silence since Nepal became a republic in 2006.
In the video, circulated widely on social media, the former monarch speaks in a calm but serious tone, expressing concern over what he describes as increasing instability, weakening national unity, and a loss of shared values. Without naming political parties or leaders, he urges those in power and the public alike to think seriously about the country’s future and to place national interest above personal or partisan gain.
Public statements from Gyanendra have been rare since he abdicated the throne following the 2006 people’s movement and the subsequent abolition of the monarchy. For many Nepalis, this has made his decision to speak—especially on Prithvi Jayanti—stand out as more than a routine message. The day itself is closely associated with ideas of national unity and statehood, themes that feature prominently in his remarks.
Political observers say the message appears carefully crafted. While it does not directly call for a revival of the monarchy, it reflects broader public frustration over frequent government changes, economic pressures, corruption allegations, and perceived failures in governance. Some analysts view the statement as an attempt to tap into growing dissatisfaction rather than a direct political intervention.
Reactions have been mixed. Leaders of major political parties have largely downplayed the message, emphasizing that Nepal’s future lies firmly within its republican and democratic framework. Others, however, argue that the former king’s words resonate with a segment of the population that feels increasingly disconnected from mainstream politics.
Gyanendra Shah ruled Nepal from 2001 until 2006, a turbulent period marked by conflict and political upheaval. Since stepping down, he has largely stayed out of public debate, making this Prithvi Jayanti address a rare moment when he re-entered the national conversation.
Whether the message will have any lasting political impact remains unclear. What is certain, however, is that by speaking on a day tied so closely to Nepal’s national identity, the former king ensured his warning would be noticed—and discussed—across the country.
