From Beats to Politics: Balendra Shah Becomes Nepal's Prime Minister

Fri Mar 27 2026 15:33:43 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Meet Balendra Shah, the ex-rapper who just became Nepal's Prime Minister! His journey from the underground music scene to political leader has captured hearts and sparked change in a nation craving new direction.

Balendra Shah, a former rapper and mayor of Kathmandu, has been sworn in as Nepal's new Prime Minister. His rise to power follows a decisive victory in the elections, reflecting a nationwide desire for change amid widespread dissatisfaction with corruption and nepotism. His music, filled with social critiques, has resonated with the youth, especially during recent protests. As Shah takes office, the Rastriya Swatantra Party faces significant challenges, including high expectations and ongoing economic issues. Will Shah deliver on his promises for a better Nepal?

Rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah has been sworn in as Nepal's prime minister after a landslide victory in the country's first election since last year's youth-led protests.

The 35-year-old's rise marks an important shift in Nepali politics. His promise of change resonated with an electorate that was angry at corruption, nepotism and elite rule.

Before taking office on Friday, Shah, popularly known as Balen, released a song filled with optimism about Nepal's future.

Undivided Nepali, this time history is being made, he rapped in a track that garnered more than two million views within hours of its release.

The song harks back to his roots in the underground rap scene, where he used music to call out corruption and other social problems in Nepal.

After just three years as mayor of the capital Kathmandu, Shah teamed up with the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) as its prime-ministerial candidate, scoring a decisive victory in general elections this month.

His supporters see him as a symbol of change and a break from the failings of Nepal's old guard. But some question whether the four-year-old RSP is capable of making good on its bold pledges.

Born in 1990 in Naradevi, Kathmandu, Shah is the youngest son in his family. He shot to fame in 2013 after winning a popular rap battle in Nepal, releasing songs that criticized corruption and social inequality.

His first hit, Balidan, which means sacrifice, condemns the economic struggles faced by average Nepalis while government employees thrive. Under Shah's mayorship, he focused on cleaning the city and tackling unlicensed businesses, which sparked mixed reviews.

Shah's message of hope resonated during last September’s protests, where protesters adopted his song Nepal Haseko as an anthem, rallying for change. Despite his popularity, he has faced criticism for heavy-handed policing tactics during his tenure.

Now as Prime Minister, Shah faces enormous expectations to deliver significant change amidst ongoing economic challenges and a population eager for reform. With a recent investigation recommending prosecution of the former prime minister, it remains to be seen how Shah will navigate Nepal's complex political landscape.