Back in February, former King Gyanendra planted the seeds of an uprising that erupted last Friday. In Kathmandu, thousands erupted into protests demanding Nepal be reinstated as a Hindu kingdom. The former king, having directly appealed to the Nepalese people for support, saw his call echoed on the streets. Tragically, two lives were claimed, and numerous structures were set ablaze during the unrest. Although Nepal currently breathes in the calm after the storm, the absence of curfews offers no guarantee of enduring peace. Who is the enigmatic King Gyanendra, whose mere appeal mobilized 10,000 into action and violence?
Though King Gyanendra garners support today, his past is speckled with both fame and intrigue. For 16 years detached from power, yet he remains influential. Scandals shadow his name, notably the grave accusation of orchestrating the demise of his brother King Birendra's entire family through his nephew.
The mystery surrounding King Gyanendra, a figure people know so little about, persists in Nepal. Fingers have pointed at him but evidence remains elusive. In the popular movement backing his return, he stands as a polarizing personage. The most damning accusation against him is the orchestrated demise of his brother, King Birendra Shah's family—a terrifying incident that sent shockwaves around the globe in 2001. The world is aware, and allegations suggest King Birendra's elder son, Prince Dipendra, executed the massacre but scrutiny still surrounds King Gyanendra. Curiously, during this horrifying massacre, King Gyanendra, the younger brother, emerged unscathed on June 1, 2001.
The question of whether King Birendra's family was targeted in a conspiracy by a power-hungry Gyanendra still puzzles minds. Isn't it mere coincidence that on that dreadful night, neither Gyanendra Shah nor his family attended the fateful party? Speculation suggests a hidden role played by him in the scheme. For a few years, he ruled Nepal as a Hindu monarch, yet his tenure was embroiled in numerous controversies.
With the rise of democracy, friction between Gyanendra and governance systems was evident. He pursued dominion, coveting absolute power, and declared himself all-powerful. In contrast, his elder brother's reign saw reduced royal intervention in political affairs, yet Gyanendra seized control of rights wholly.
Today, it is noteworthy that King Gyanendra commands immense wealth. His assets amounted to 100 million dollars in 2008. From owning numerous hotels to vast tea estates, his investments in Nepal are vast. He undeniably plays a significant role in the current royal restoration movement, which he orchestrated with precise control, all while pursuing the vision of reinstating Nepal as a Hindu nation.
The unfolding of Nepal's troubled history continues to center around mysterious King Gyanendra.
