Balen Shah is seen as appealing to Gen Z because he lacks baggage from the traditional political establishment, won support from young Nepalis through his outsized social media presence, and represented an alternative to establishment politics. The RSP's surge is attributed to widespread support from Gen Z voters who played a pivotal role in last year's protests demanding action against corruption and nepotism.
His earlier career as a rapper helped him connect with younger audiences while his political messaging emphasized transparency, accountability, and systemic change. His campaign rallies drew mass participation from young Nepalis, women, Madheshi communities, and diaspora supporters. He basically speaks their language, literally and figuratively.