Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen, has captured Nepal’s attention as an engineer-turned-rapper who became the independent mayor of Kathmandu. Now, he is emerging as a symbol of political change, rallying the country’s Gen Z generation.
Nepal is witnessing the extraordinary moment of a political trend with Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen, at its center. Engineering by training, rapping by passion, and independent mayor of Kathmandu by choice, Shah has emerged quickly as a face for change in Nepali politics. With the sitting Prime Minister resigning and the offenses of young citizens rising, many are questioning if Balen could be the next Prime Minister of the country.
Who is Balendra Shah?
In Nepal, Balen was one of the best-known names for big rap lyrics and engineering jobs before he stepped into the political arena. Educated as a structural engineer, he had gained popularity in rap battles that voiced the anger of the youth. The mixture of technical knowledge and cultural appeal was what made him different from all other candidates in the 2022 Kathmandu mayoral elections. Shah ran as an independent hoping to connect directly with citizens, especially young voters who were fed up with old-style party politics.
Gen Z’s Favorite Political Voice
Sitting at the intersection of the tech-savvy, outspoken situation of an intolerant youth in public maintain official corruption, Gen Z has found their voice in Balen Shah. His plain-speaking style, active social media engagement, and notoriety for arguing against inefficiency have rallied immense support behind him. Unlike the politicians several decades in the making, Shah presents as one such individual relatable, honorable, and sincere in truly wanting change. Recent youth-led protests opposing digital restrictions and corruption have only been instrumental in growing his reputation as a people’s leader.
Outdoing the Ordinary
Balen has caught the attention of media in Nepal across the country by prioritizing urban reform, waste management, and transparent governance during his short time in office. Some of the decisions may not have been politically agreeable to the establishment, but opposing views have given credence to his image of not being afraid to put his reputation on the line for whatever cause he believes to be good. His inclusion in TIME100 Next as an emerging global leader only adds to his credibility of someone with potential beyond the confines of Kathmandu.
The Prime Minister Question
Increased political instability has led to several pressing questions thrown toward Balen for coming out as the much-needed fresh face of the country. Calling out to grace the Prime Minister’s position has almost taken over social media. While Shah himself has not been one to declare such ambitions, the ball is in his court, should he choose to play it, as the power continues to grow over his head, hovering between the shoulder of overwhelming Gen Z supporters.
A New Kind of Politics
Whether or not it be him Balen Shah should become Nepal’s next Prime Minister, his path carries the promise of bringing transformation in South Asian politics. He represents a new type of leader: well-educated, highly creative, and willing to challenge tradition. For the youth of Nepal, he symbolizes hope, accountability, and the realization of a government that actually listens to the people.