Article Today, Nepal:
Nepal is witnessing an unprecedented youth-led political movement against corruption, hereditary politics, and restrictions on social media. At the centre of this wave is 36-year-old Sudan Gurung, president of the organisation Hami Nepal. Once known as a disc jockey and event organiser, Mr. Gurung has now become the symbol of resistance for the younger generation. His call to challenge old political practices has resonated with thousands of students and activists.
From Music to Social Work
Born in 1989, Mr. Gurung pursued a basic degree and worked in the entertainment sector, managing nightclubs and events. His life changed drastically after the devastating earthquake of 2015, in which he lost his young child. He has often described that tragedy as a turning point, pushing him towards social service. From then on, he shifted his focus to disaster relief activities, providing aid to thousands of affected people. This experience laid the foundation for his later activism.
Rise of Hami Nepal
In the aftermath of the earthquake, Mr. Gurung’s social media post attracted 200 volunteers who joined him in relief operations. Encouraged by the response, he established Hami Nepal in 2015. Initially dedicated to disaster relief and rehabilitation, the organisation gradually expanded to youth empowerment and civic participation. With support from doctors, public figures, and celebrities such as Miss Universe Nepal, the group used platforms like Instagram and Discord to mobilise young citizens. Over time, it became a significant platform for collective action.
Protests and New Strategies
During the government’s social media ban, Mr. Gurung and his associates used VPNs and encrypted apps to coordinate protests. He encouraged students to wear school uniforms and hold books during rallies, symbolising peaceful dissent. At protest sites, Hami Nepal volunteers set up first-aid camps to assist the injured. Mr. Gurung has repeatedly emphasised that the movement is not about individual leadership but about collective struggle. Popular hashtags such as #UnbanSocialMedia and #NepoKid gained traction online, bringing digital dissent onto the streets.
A Question of Political Entry
As demonstrations spread across Nepal, speculation has grown about whether Mr. Gurung will formally enter politics. For now, he remains focused on civic activism. However, his role in galvanising the youth has already marked a turning point. The campaign has highlighted the power of digital natives in shaping political discourse and challenging entrenched systems.
A New Chapter for Nepal’s Youth
The journey of Mr. Gurung, from a DJ and nightclub organiser to the leader of a national movement, reflects a wider shift in Nepalese society. His story continues to inspire young citizens who see in him the possibility of change. The movement underlines how the energy of youth, when channelled through collective action, can reshape the nation’s political landscape.
