Love And Death In Kathmandu
Who killed King Birendra and his family? Evidence points to a crown prince gone berserk over a love affair. Not only does the new ruler, King Gyanendra, have to win over the people, he also has to address the unpopularity of his own son. Report from a country in crisis.

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COVER STORY: NEPAL

Prince Paras
Black Prince II

HEIR? Paras at his wedding

The mantle of Vishnu's reincarnation sits uneasily with the obligations of a monarchy in a democracy. For King Gyanendra, there is an additional problem-he hasn't yet earned the love and respect that comes with his job. The circumstances surrounding his accession to the throne isn't the only reason. There are others. First, he is too much of a successful businessman to convey an image of detached stewardship. He has substantial interests in the Surya Tobbacco Company, a joint venture with India's ITC, the Oberoi Soaltee hotel in Kathmandu and a tea garden. Second, he is burdened by the reputation of his son Paras, 25, something of a popular hate figure.

In October 2000 a Mitsubishi Pajero, said to have been driven by an inebriated Paras, knocked down the motorcycle of musician Praveen Gurung, who used to perform in the Hotel Yak and Yeti in Kathmandu, and killed him. No criminal case was lodged but when Paras was conferred the title of "Shahzada" (prince) last year, there was a signature campaign appealing to the king for revocation of the title. Gyanendra faces a serious dilemma over Paras. Convention demands that the king nominate his heir, who can then be anointed crown prince by the 125-member Raj Parishad. By the practice of male primogeniture, the position should go to Paras. Gyanendra knows better than anyone else the political costs of making Paras crown prince at this juncture. Such a move could trigger popular upheaval and jeopardise the monarchy's existence. Yet, not appointing an heir carries a similar risk and exposes Nepal to uncertainty.

Gyanendra will in all probability try to buy time. But this is going to be a long haul in view of the determination of radicals to press for a republican order. The publication of the inquiry committee report on the killings is certain to be the occasion for a concerted assault on the very institution of monarchy. Regardless of what the report says, Gyanendra and his prime minister will be accused of a cover-up, and the Maoists will ensure street protests. And Paras will be the albatross round Gyanendra's neck.

Unless, of course, he exercises his constitutional right, redefines the line of succession and appoints a crown princess.

MetroScape

Theatre Of The Abused
Mahesh Dattani's 30 Days in September, a 90-minute play commissioned by Rahi, a Delhi-based support group for adult victims of sexual abuse and incest, opened to packed houses this weekend at Prithvi Theatre in Mumbai.
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