Balen Shah is locked in a contest with KP Oli in Jhapa, a race that has drawn national attention as a symbol of the battle between Nepal’s political old guard and a new generation of leaders.

Ex-rapper and Kathmandu's former mayor, Balen Shah, is all set to become Nepal's next prime minister. A Maithili-speaking leader with a fierce Madhesi identity, his rise in Nepali politics would bring a major shift from the old political guard. As the Mayor, Balen Shah transformed Kathmandu.

Nepal is going to elect a new prime minister soon after months of political unrest. After Nepal's historic youth-led uprising last September that killed 77 people and forced then-Prime Minister K.P....

As Balen Shah's RSP secures a historic lead in Nepal’s 2026 elections, New Delhi remains on edge. Explore why the NPR 100 banknote map row and the 'Big Brother' accusations make this election a crucial test for India-Nepal ties.  

Early trends from Nepal's March 5 elections show Balen Shah leading veteran leader KP Oli in Jhapa-5. From rap battles to the national stage, explore how the Balen Effect and the RSP are dominating the 2026 polls.