Ex-King Gyanendra's Pilgrimage Sparks Monarchist Resurgence in Nepal

Nepal's former monarch Gyanendra Shah embarks on a pilgrimage at the Janaki Temple, reigniting calls for a constitutional monarchy. His visit, amid the nation's political shift, challenges existing constitutional norms by reusing royal titles, raising questions on monarchical influence ahead of parliamentary elections.

Nepal's former king, Gyanendra Shah, commenced a pilgrimage in Madhesh on Monday, performing religious rites at the Janaki Temple. This event precedes the nation's House of Representatives elections in March and highlights a pivotal moment as Shah returns to the public eye with his traditional royal titles.

A vast crowd of supporters and Rastriya Prajatantra Party activists, voicing pro-monarchy chants, greeted Shah as he arrived at the temple. This pilgrimage is perceived as a strategic move to strengthen his influence and revive the initiative for a constitutional monarchy in the nation.

After offering prayers at Janaki Temple, Shah's ceremonial tour continued to the Ram and Kaladevi Temples. His shift back to using royal honorifics, a move not recognized by Nepal's constitution, has reignited political discourse, with implications for upcoming elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)