Sun Mar 09 22:26:25 UTC 2025: ## Nepal’s Former King Returns to Kathmandu Amidst Pro-Monarchy Rallies

**Kathmandu, Nepal –** Former King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev returned to Kathmandu on March 9, 2025, greeted by hundreds of pro-monarchy supporters demanding the restoration of the monarchy abolished in 2008. The 77-year-old former king’s arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport from Pokhara was met with chants of “We want our King back” and calls to reinstate the monarchy. Supporters, including members of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party, carried placards and waved national flags.

Heavy security measures were in place, with riot police guarding the former royal palace, Narayanhity Palace Museum, anticipating a potential visit by the former king and his supporters. While the crowd ultimately proceeded to the former king’s private residence, Nirmal Niwas, hundreds of security personnel were deployed along the route to prevent any disturbances.

This demonstration follows days of rallies across the country, fueled by renewed pro-monarchy sentiment. The calls for the monarchy’s return intensified after the former king’s February statement suggesting a need for the monarchy to assume responsibility for national unity. Bollywood actress Manisha Koirala even took to social media urging Nepalese citizens to welcome the former monarch at the airport. The heightened activity underscores the ongoing debate surrounding Nepal’s political future.

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