Nepal on Wednesday observed the birth anniversary of Nepal's first King Pritwi Narayan Shah, considered to be the unifier of the country.
The birth anniversary of Shah, who founded the Nepal's Shah dynasty, is observed as the National Unity Day. The monarchy in Nepal was abolished in 2008 when Gyanendra, the last king, stepped down and paved pay for democratic republic.
Thousands of supporters of the former Nepali Royal Family on Wednesday held a rally for the restoration of monarchy in Nepal.
There are still many supporters who seek to bring the monarchy back and rally every year on the birth anniversary of Prithvi Narayan. Some previous rallies have turned violent with clashes between demonstrators and police. However, the Wednesday's rally was peaceful and police in riot gear kept a close watch on the event that included participants waving flags, playing music, and chanting slogans to praise the monarchy.
Nepal's new government led by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" declared Wednesday a public holiday to mark Prithvi Narayan's birthday. Ironically, Prachanda is the Maoist leader who led the Maoist insurgents in the Nepali Civil War during 1996-2006 which resulted in the overthrow of the monarchy. In yet another case of irony, Prachanda's ruling coalition includes Rastriya Prajatantra Party, a monarchist party.
Gyanendra became the king after his elder brighter Birendra was assassinated in a palace massacre in 2001 but remained unpopular. Political parties teamed up with the Maoist insurgents to organise protests forcing him to give up power in 2006.
Two years later, Parliament voted to abolish the monarchy. Gyanendra, 75, remains a common citizen and is not politically active.
The protesters welcomed the government's declaration of a public holiday and allowing them to hold the rally.
“The monarchy needs to return to Nepal. We are seeking a ceremonial king and we are fine with an executive prime minister but need a ceremonial king,” said Ram Prasad Upreti, a retired medical doctor.
(With AP inputs)
