ThePrint CutTheCLutter: Understanding Nepal crisis & some myth-busting: Monarchy, Hinduism, democracy and anarchy
Sep 12, 2025
Delve into the complex historical roots of Nepal's current crisis, where misunderstandings about Indian influence are rife. Explore the evolution of Nepal's monarchy, detailing its decline and the emergence of democratic movements. Gain insights into the role of the military during political transitions, and witness the vibrancy of young leadership and activism fueled by Gen Z. With voices like Balen Shah leading the charge, youth engagement in Nepal's socio-political landscape is more vibrant than ever.
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India As A Regional Overhang
- India is a large regional overhang that shapes neighbor perceptions and can fuel anti-India feelings when misunderstood.
- Shekhar Gupta warns that fact-free rhetoric worsens hostility and misreads neighborhood dynamics.
Three Forces Shaping Neighbours
- Three dominant regional impulses are military, religion and monarchy, which shape each neighbor's politics.
- In Nepal the military historically stayed professional and did not seize power, unlike some neighbors.
Sovereignty And National Narratives
- Sovereignty and nationalism strongly drive South Asian politics, each country defining identity differently.
- Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal use distinct historical narratives to shape national pride and legitimacy.