Pokhara, 27 March| Newly appointed Prime Minister Balen Shah formally took the oath of office and secrecy at the President’s Office in Shital Niwas at exactly 12:34 PM on March 13, marking a significant and symbolic moment in Nepal’s political landscape. The oath was administered by President Ram Chandra Paudel during a ceremony that blended tradition, spirituality, and modern political change, making it both unique and historically memorable. The timing of 12:34 PM was deliberately chosen for its auspicious numerical sequence, which is widely regarded as highly favorable.
The ceremony stood out for its strong cultural representation and spiritual undertones. Before the oath-taking, 108 Hindu batuks recited sacred chants, while 107 Buddhist monks performed Ashtamangala prayers, symbolizing harmony between Nepal’s major religious traditions. The ritual was further elevated by the blowing of conch shells by seven Brahmins, creating a resonant and sacred atmosphere throughout the venue.
To reflect Nepal’s cultural diversity, the venue featured elements of Mithila art alongside Kirati cultural symbols such as “Silam Sakma.” These displays conveyed a clear message of unity in diversity, a core identity of the nation. Adding a symbolic layer, two individuals dressed as Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were present, emphasizing religious reverence and cultural continuity.
The event was attended by senior political leaders, high-ranking officials, newly elected members of the House of Representatives, and supporters, giving it both political and public significance. During the oath, Prime Minister Shah appeared composed, serious, and confident, reinforcing expectations surrounding his leadership.
Shah’s rise to the premiership has been both rapid and unconventional. In the parliamentary elections held on February 21, he secured victory from Jhapa-5 by defeating former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli with a margin of 49,614 votes. Prior to this, he served as the Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, having won as an independent candidate in the 2022 local elections.
Often described as a rapper-turned-politician, Shah’s political ascent is widely interpreted as a reflection of the awakening of the younger generation, particularly Gen Z voters seeking change. His appointment as Prime Minister is being viewed as the beginning of a new political era in Nepal, one that attempts to balance deep-rooted traditions with the aspirations of a modern, reform-oriented society.
