From the streets of Kathmandu to the halls of power. Rapper. Structural Engineer. Revolutionary Mayor. Nepal's first independent mayor and Prime Minister candidate 2026 - the voice of Gen Z fighting corruption, transforming cities, and building a better tomorrow.
Released his first single "Sadak Balak" in 8th grade, reflecting on the hardships of urban youth. This marked his entry into Nepal's hip-hop scene (Nephop), establishing himself as a voice for the streets.
Won Raw Barz Season 2, defeating prominent rappers including Ashish Rana (Laure). Gained massive recognition in Nepal's underground hip-hop community for his freestyle rap skills and social commentary.
Released "Balidan" (Sacrifice), a powerful anthem critiquing political corruption. The song now has over 11 million views and became a rallying cry for young Nepalis demanding change and accountability.
A collaborative folk-fusion track inspired by the culture of Marpha, Mustang. Balen Shah appears as a featured rapper, blending modern rap with traditional Nepali musical elements.
Elected as Kathmandu's 15th Mayor - the first independent candidate to win since 1989, defeating major political parties by over 61,000 votes. Transformed from rapper to revolutionary politician.
Released "Nepal Haseko" for the film Laaj Sharanam - his first song since becoming mayor. Hit #1 on YouTube trending within hours, garnering over 1 million views, visualizing a developed Nepal.
Joined Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and announced candidacy for Prime Minister. Resigned as mayor on January 18, 2026 to pursue national leadership, representing Gen Z's voice for change.
Since 2012, Balen has been a powerful voice in Nepal's hip-hop scene (Nephop). His socially conscious lyrics tackle corruption, inequality, and youth struggles. With hits like "Balidan" (11M+ views), "Hami Yestai Ta Ho Ni Bro", and participation in Raw Barz battle rap, he became a cultural icon who speaks truth to power through music. His 900k+ YouTube subscribers follow his journey of using rap as a vehicle for social change.
A structural engineer by profession with a Bachelor's in Civil Engineering from Himalayan Whitehouse International College and a Master's in Structural Engineering from Visvesvaraya Technological University, India. Currently pursuing a PhD in Civil Engineering at Kathmandu University. Managing Director of Balen Consulting & Construction Pvt. Ltd., he brings technical expertise and data-driven approaches to governance and urban planning.
In 2022, Balen made history as Kathmandu's first independent mayor since 1989, winning by over 61,000 votes against major political parties. His campaigns included revolutionary waste management reforms, Tukucha River conservation, road traffic control, "Textbook-free-Friday" program, and infrastructure transformation. Now running for Prime Minister with RSP, he represents Nepal's Gen Z demanding accountability, transparency, and real change.
Nepal's future depends on your voice. Join the movement that's transforming our nation. Support transparency, accountability, and youth-driven leadership for a better tomorrow.
"This rally is a spontaneous movement of Gen Z, for whom even I may seem old. But it is necessary to hear them out. Political parties should not try to co-opt this rally for their own interests." - Balen Shah
Balen's first single released while in 9th grade. A raw, authentic track reflecting on the hardships of urban youth and life on the streets. Marked his bold entry into the Nephop (Nepali hip-hop) community as a young voice demanding to be heard.
Winner of Raw Barz Season 2, defeating top rappers including Ashish Rana (Laure), Unique Poet (Utasha Joshi), and Sacar Adhikari (Little Buddha). These breakthrough freestyle rap battles showcased his lyrical prowess, quick thinking, and fearless social commentary, establishing him as a force in Nepal's hip-hop scene.
A powerful protest anthem that became the voice of a generation. Critiques political corruption and systemic failures with raw emotion and truth. This viral hit captures the frustration and hope of young Nepalis locked out of the system, demanding change and accountability. Produced by Nasty and Spark, directed by the dumb director.
A tribute to Nepali pride and heritage, blending traditional themes with modern hip-hop. Celebrates the resilience and warrior spirit of the Gorkhali people while addressing contemporary issues facing the nation.
The track that catapulted Balen into mainstream recognition. A perfect blend of sarcasm, social critique, and raw honesty addressing issues like frustration with Nepal's political system, corruption, and struggles faced by youth. This anthem resonated deeply with young Nepalis and became a cultural phenomenon.
A collaborative track showcasing Balen's versatility. Blends traditional Nepali cultural elements with contemporary hip-hop, creating a unique soundscape that appeals to diverse audiences while maintaining authentic storytelling.
Hard-hitting track with aggressive beats and unapologetic lyrics. Addresses the harsh realities of the system and the savage nature of politics, delivered with raw energy and uncompromising honesty that defines Balen's style.
Featured collaboration showcasing Balen's ability to work with other artists. Maintains his signature socially conscious messaging while exploring new musical territories and reaching broader audiences.
Made history in 2022 by becoming Kathmandu's first independent mayor in over three decades, defeating established political parties and proving that change is possible outside traditional party systems.
Won Nepal's premier rap battle competition in 2013, defeating top rappers and establishing himself as one of the most skilled lyricists in Nephop's underground scene.
Implemented comprehensive waste management reforms in Kathmandu, tackling decades of neglect with systematic approaches to garbage collection, segregation, and disposal.
Led bold campaigns to uncover and revitalize the Tukucha River by demolishing unauthorized constructions, prioritizing environmental conservation and city beautification over illegal encroachments.
Removed unauthorized police sub-stations from sidewalks, confronted Civil Aviation Authority over illegal airport constructions, and implemented strict enforcement of city planning regulations.
Launched innovative education initiative in community schools, helping students learn technical skills and engage in extracurricular activities beyond traditional academic curriculum.
Promoted free skills training across 37 professions for city youth, addressing unemployment by making young people more employable through practical skill development.
Earned advanced degree from Visvesvaraya Technological University, India. Currently pursuing PhD in Civil Engineering at Kathmandu University while serving the public.
Managing Director of Balen Consulting & Construction Pvt. Ltd., bringing private sector experience and entrepreneurial thinking to public service and governance.
Joined Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and announced candidacy for Prime Minister, representing Gen Z's demand for transparency, accountability, and systemic change at the national level.
Became the face of Nepal's Gen Z protests demanding governmental accountability. Supported the movement while cautioning against violence and property destruction, earning respect across generations.
Kathmandu Metropolitan City Office
Kathmandu, Nepal
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP)
Prime Minister Candidate 2026
YouTube: 900k+ Subscribers
Facebook: 3.3MK+ Followers
Instagram: 900k+ Followers
Twitter: 400K+ Followers
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