Nepal is engulfed in political turmoil and is on the verge of economic bankruptcy. That did not stop his majesty's birthday from being celebrated in a most brazenly lavish manner. Despite rhetoric, it did not make an iota of difference to the average citizen, either those displaced from their homes or those mourning the loss of their loved ones in a senseless war. Instead of any message of reconciliation or succour to the masses, the court jesters, advisers and ministers alike, continue to advocate the virtues of authoritarianism under the pretext of democracy. A truly constructive monarchy, indeed.

S Shrestha,
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