Dashain, Gen Z Protests And Nepal’s Economic Crossroads

• Yamuna Paudel

Nepal, a nation steeped in tradition yet striving for modernization, is currently navigating a transformative period. Dashain, the most celebrated festival, embodies resilience, familial ties, and national unity, while the rise of Gen Z protests reflects dissatisfaction with corruption, unemployment, and fragile governance. The festival stimulates economic activity through increased consumption and remittance inflows, but youth frustration with systemic stagnation often overshadows temporary gains. Recent protests, such as the 'No Tax Without Accountability' movement and Maitighar Mandala demonstrations against corruption scandals, highlight the determination of Gen Z to demand structural reform. At the same time, Nepal’s economy suffers from inflation, dependence on remittances, and declining foreign investment. With nearly 400,000 youths entering the labor force annually but few securing jobs, migration pressures continue to intensify. Looking ahead, Nepal’s trajectory depends on harmonizing cultural resilience with reformist energy. Dashain symbolizes shared identity, while Gen Z activism demands transformation. Bridging these forces could determine whether Nepal overcomes stagnation and achieves self-reliance.

Festivals, Frustration, and the Future: Nepal Between Tradition and Transformation
Dashain has long been the cornerstone of Nepal’s cultural identity, uniting families and stimulating short-term economic activity. Yet beneath the festive atmosphere, Nepal’s youth—Gen Z— are increasingly mobilizing against deep-rooted political and economic dysfunctions. Through digital activism and grassroots protests, they highlight grievances ranging from corruption and poor governance to unemployment and migration. Examples such as student-led campaigns against tuition hikes and protests over misuse of taxpayer funds illustrate how youth engagement is reshaping Nepal’s political discourse. While Dashain continues to reinforce communal bonds, it also exposes contradictions: families spend heavily during festivities even as economic stagnation persists. The future lies in reconciling these contradictions. Nepal can embrace the dynamism of its youth while preserving cultural traditions. If youth activism is integrated into policymaking, and if the economic system adapts to encourage entrepreneurship and investment, Nepal could move beyond dependence on remittances and fragile politics into a phase of renewal.

Nepal’s Gen Z Movements and the Economic Lessons of Dashain
Dashain, Nepal’s grandest festival, represents resilience and shared heritage. Yet, at the same time, youth-led protests across the nation expose frustration with systemic failures. Gen Z, empowered by social media, has challenged corruption scandals, economic mismanagement, and weak governance. Campaigns like 'No Tax Without Accountability' illustrate how activism is redefining political participation in Nepal. Economically, Dashain sparks temporary market surges in trade, clothing, and transport. However, structural issues persist: inflation, unemployment, and overreliance on remittances. Nearly 400,000 young people enter the labor force annually, yet limited opportunities push many abroad, fueling brain drain. This paradox—lavish spending during Dashain despite economic stagnation—captures the complex reality of modern Nepal. Nepal’s future will depend on whether policymakers can channel Gen Z’s reformist spirit alongside traditional cultural values. Harnessing both could help create accountable governance and sustainable growth, ensuring that celebrations like Dashain are not just cultural anchors but also symbols of economic progress.