Hinduism in the Secular Republic of Nepal

Nepal, which formerly prided itself on being ‘the world’s only Hindu Kingdom’, is now officially secular. Secularism was adopted by the interim assembly as part of the removal of the monarchy in the semi-revolutionary situation following the end of the Maoist insurgency. Many of the members of Parliament who voted for it then had regrets later. Religion, and specifically Hindu forms of religion, remain a powerful force both in everyday life and in politics. Even communist leaders who may have spoken against it in opposition find themselves participating in religious rituals once in office. Yet, despite this, many Hindus feel a sense of existential threat and fear proselytization by Christians and Muslims.