Balendra
Shah
Engineer. Leader. Visionary.
From the streets of Kathmandu to the national stage — transforming governance, rebuilding heritage, and empowering a generation.
The People's Mayor
Born on April 27, 1990, in Naradevi, Kathmandu — Balendra Shah rose from a modest background to become one of Nepal's most consequential political figures.
The son of Dr. Ram Narayan Shah, an Ayurvedic practitioner, Balen's journey is the quintessential story of a new Nepal. After earning his engineering degrees, he could have pursued a comfortable career — instead, he chose to use his platform, first through music and then through governance, to fight for systemic change.
His 2022 mayoral campaign, fueled entirely by grassroots support and social media engagement, shattered the long-standing dominance of traditional political parties in Kathmandu. His victory was widely described as a “paradigm shift” in Nepalese politics.
Structural Engineer
B.E. in Civil Engineering from Himalayan WhiteHouse International College. M.Tech in Structural Engineering from VTU, Karnataka, India.
Hip-Hop Pioneer
Active since 2012, his music addressed corruption, inequality, and urban challenges — amplifying the voice of Nepal's youth.
15th Mayor of Kathmandu
Elected in May 2022 as the first independent candidate to lead the capital, winning 38.6% of the vote — a historic mandate.
TIME 100 Next
Named in TIME Magazine's 2023 list of 100 emerging leaders shaping the future of the world.
View Official Profile ↗From Streets to National Stage
A career defined by authenticity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to the people.
Born in Naradevi
Born in Naradevi, Kathmandu to a family of Maithili origin. Father Dr. Ram Narayan Shah is an Ayurvedic practitioner.
Hip-Hop Debut
Released first single 'Sadak Balak' and entered Nepal's hip-hop scene, using music to speak truth about corruption and inequality.
Raw Barz Recognition
Gained nationwide recognition through YouTube battle rap series Raw Barz, becoming a voice for Nepal's youth.
Political Entry
Announced candidacy for Kathmandu Mayor as an independent — focusing on waste management, traffic, public services, and anti-corruption.
Historic Election Victory
Elected 15th Mayor of Kathmandu on May 26 with 38.6% votes — the first independent to hold the position. A paradigm shift in Nepali politics.
TIME 100 Next
Named in TIME Magazine's annual list of 100 emerging leaders shaping the world. Global recognition for his transformative governance.
Gen Z Movement
Supported the youth-led anti-corruption protests that led to the dissolution of parliament. A new political era begins.
National Politics
Resigned as Mayor, joined Rastriya Swatantra Party as PM candidate. Contesting from Jhapa-5 against former PM K.P. Sharma Oli.
Transforming Kathmandu
In just over three years as Mayor, Balen Shah delivered measurable results across every domain of metropolitan governance.
Transparent Governance
First-ever live telecast of municipal council meetings. Launched e-governance with e-Certificates and e-Office systems.
Waste Management Reform
Overhauled solid waste collection with new systems, promoted recycling, and launched public awareness campaigns. Streets visibly cleaner.
Illegal Structure Removal
Demolished unauthorized buildings and reclaimed public land — including structures over the Tukucha River — restoring public spaces.
Infrastructure Revolution
Upgraded 55km of roads under the dust-free initiative. Installed 13,340+ streetlights on 5,318 poles. High-mast lights at 62 intersections.
Heritage Preservation
Spent Rs 910M on 276 tangible heritage projects and 125 intangible cultural programs. Restored traditional stone spouts and resting places.
Education Reform
'Textbook-free Friday' for technical skills. Mandated 10% scholarships in private schools. 30,000+ students received support.
Environmental Action
Promoted green spaces and tree planting. Resolved issues at Sisdol and Banchare Dada dumping sites. City-wide conservation efforts.
Digital Governance
Launched KMC App for public services, metropolitan call center, and grievance management system. E-governance for citizens.
A Vision for Nepal
Not a manifesto — a binding Citizen Contract. Quantifiable pledges with accountability. Released February 15, 2026 by Rastriya Swatantra Party.
“Nepal requires a long-term vision and honest leadership to ensure a safe and hopeful future for current and succeeding generations. We must create a safe environment, meet public needs, and empower citizens.”
— Balendra Shah
Economic Transformation
USD $7 Billion
Targeting nearly $7B in annual revenue by 2030. Increase per capita income to $3,000 within five years.
Employment Generation
1.2 Million Jobs
Creating 1.2 million new employment opportunities through economic growth, digital infrastructure, and skill development.
Energy Independence
15,000 MW
Increasing Nepal's installed power capacity to 15 GW — harnessing hydropower potential for energy self-sufficiency and exports.
Free Education
Quality free education for all. Expanding technical and vocational training to build a skilled workforce for Nepal's future economy.
Free Healthcare
Universal free healthcare for the underprivileged. Strengthening health institutions across all 32 wards and expanding to the national level.
Disaster-Resilient Nation
Building disaster-resilient infrastructure leveraging structural engineering expertise. Preparedness policies for earthquakes, floods, and climate events.
The Citizen Contract includes provisions for accountability — including potential stepping down from roles if pledges go unmet. A first in Nepal's political history.
Real Impact, Measurable Results
Numbers don't lie — here's the quantified legacy of Balen Shah's tenure as Kathmandu Mayor.
Ropani of Public Land Reclaimed
Worth approx. Rs 23 Billion
Roads Upgraded
Dust-free road initiative
Streetlights Installed
On 5,318 poles across the city
Heritage Projects
Rs 910M invested in preservation
Student Scholarships
Through private school mandates
Major Intersections
With high-mast lighting
“Nepal requires a long-term vision and honest leadership to ensure a safe and hopeful future for current and succeeding generations.”
On his vision for the nation