Nepal’s Gen Z Uprising: Rage Against the Elite Ignites Nationwide Turmoil
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| Nepal Protests, Nepal’s Gen Z Uprising |
Kathmandu, Nepal — September 11, 2025
Nepal is reeling from one of its most explosive political uprisings in recent history, as thousands of young protesters—many in their teens and early twenties—took to the streets this week in a sweeping movement that toppled the prime minister and set fire to symbols of elite privilege.
The protests, dubbed the “Gen Z Revolution,” erupted over long-standing grievances about corruption, inequality, and the extravagant lifestyles of Nepal’s political class. What began as a march on parliament quickly escalated into a nationwide revolt, with demonstrators storming government buildings and torching luxury hotels linked to powerful figures.
🏛️ Power in Flames
Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday, a day after 19 protesters were killed in violent clashes. The death toll has since climbed to 34, with over 1,300 injured, according to Nepal’s health ministry.
While the parliament, Supreme Court, and prime minister’s residence were engulfed in flames, arsonists also targeted high-end hotels such as the Hilton, Hyatt Regency, and Varnabas Museum Hotel. These properties, often frequented by foreign tourists and owned by political elites, became symbols of the widening gap between Nepal’s ruling class and its struggling youth.
Bhushan Rane, front office manager at the Hyatt Regency near the sacred Boudhanath Stupa, confirmed damage to the hotel but reported no injuries. The property has since closed indefinitely.
💬 Social Media Sparks the Fire
The movement gained momentum through viral posts on TikTok and Instagram, exposing the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children—designer clothes, luxury cars, and exotic vacations. These images stood in stark contrast to the reality faced by thousands of young Nepalis who leave the country daily in search of work abroad.
“This is the frustration of the common people,” said retired Supreme Court Justice Balaram K.C. “Those who are supposed to serve the nation are serving themselves and their families.”
🏨 Political Fallout
Rajendra Bajgain, a lawmaker from the Nepali Congress party and owner of the Varnabas Museum Hotel, announced his resignation from parliament after his property was attacked. Expressing sympathy for the protesters, he acknowledged the deep-rooted dissatisfaction with corruption and inequality.
The Hilton Kathmandu, opened last year by industrial heir Shahil Agrawal, was also damaged. A spokesperson confirmed the hotel’s closure and safe evacuation of guests and staff.
🌍 A Nation at a Crossroads
Nepal’s Gen Z uprising marks a dramatic shift in the country’s political landscape. Fueled by digital activism and economic despair, the protests have forced a reckoning with entrenched power and privilege. Whether this movement leads to lasting reform or further instability remains to be seen—but one thing is clear: Nepal’s youth are no longer willing to stay silent.
