Why many in Nepal want monarchy to return
What's the story
Thousands of supporters gathered in Kathmandu on Sunday to greet Nepal's former king Gyanendra Shah, calling for his reinstatement and the restoration of Hinduism as a state religion.
An estimated 10,000 royalists blocked the main entrance to Tribhuvan International Airport, chanting "Long live our beloved king" and "Vacate the royal palace for the king."
Frustration due to political instability and economic struggles since the monarchy was abolished in 2008 has led to renewed calls for its return.
Discontent
Discontent with republic fuels calls for monarchy's return
The protest affected operations at the airport, leaving passengers to walk to and from the terminal. Hundreds of riot police were called in to stop demonstrators from entering the airport.
Nepal abolished its 239-year-old monarchy in 2008, two years after massive street protests forced Gyanendra to step down from absolute rule. It became a federal democratic republic.
However, since then, many Nepalis have been left dissatisfied with political instability and economic struggles.
Support
Protesters express support for Gyanendra's return
Since the abolition of the monarchy, Nepal has seen 13 different governments, making many believe the current system has failed them.
Protesters voiced support for a political system change to save the country from further deterioration.
"We are here to give the king...full support and to rally behind him all the way to reinstating him," said 72-year-old Thir Bahadur Bhandari, a protester.
Fifty-year-old Kulraj Shrestha, a carpenter who initially opposed the monarchy but has changed his mind, echoed similar sentiments.
Disruption
Protesters disrupted airport operations, demanding monarchy's restoration
Political analyst Lok Raj Baral told the AFP news agency that he saw little chance of the monarchy being reinstated because the institution has been "a source of instability."
"For some disgruntled groups, it has become a retreat due to the incompetence of politicians who have grown increasingly self-centred. This frustration has manifested in such gatherings and demonstrations," he said.