Balendra 'Balen' Shah is all set to take oath as Nepal's Prime Minister on Friday (March 27), marking a significant political moment in the Himalayan nation. The swearing-in coincides with Ram Navami as observed in the country and will place one of the world's youngest leaders at the helm.
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From rapper to prime minister
Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen (35), first rose to prominence as a rapper before entering public life. He later became the mayor of Kathmandu, where he built a strong following by positioning himself against the federal establishment.
His political journey has often been shaped by confrontations with Singha Durbar, the seat of Nepal's central government. Having criticised the system while in local office, Shah is now set to govern from the same complex.
Confrontations that shaped his image
Several incidents during his tenure as mayor highlighted his combative style. In September 2023, after police stopped a Kathmandu Metropolitan City vehicle carrying his wife on a public holiday, Shah posted, "…if any of our KMC vehicles are stopped by the govt (in future), I will set Singha Durbar on fire."
Though the post was later deleted, it drew wide attention, as reported by The Times of India. In September 2025, when Singha Durbar was set on fire during a Gen Z uprising, the KP Sharma Oli government accused KMC of failing to send firefighters on time, a claim Shah rejected.
Stand during the 'Adipurush' controversy
Shah's confrontations extended beyond administrative issues. During the "Adipurush" row in June 2023, triggered by a dialogue referring to Sita as the "daughter of India", Shah banned the screening of Indian films in Kathmandu. He also refused to comply with a court order, a move that drew both support and criticism.
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Shah's move to the federal level marks a major shift in his political journey. A one columnist was quoted as saying by TOI, "Ultimately, his real test will not be in his decisions, but in his perspective... Will he weaken institutions in the charm of popularity, or strengthen institutions to make his popularity enduring?"
