Meet Avishkar Raut: The 16-Year-Old Nepali Student Who Led Millions Against Corrupt Politicians

In an inspiring turn of events, 16-year-old Avishkar Raut, the head boy of Holy Bell English Secondary School in Kathmandu, has become the face of a Gen Z-led movement against political corruption in Nepal.

What started as a student’s passionate stand has transformed into a nationwide revolution, mobilizing millions of young people to demand transparency and accountability from their leaders.

The protests erupted after the Nepalese government banned several major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, in an apparent attempt to suppress citizens exposing corruption. In response, over 14 million young Nepalis took to the streets, voicing their frustrations and calling for systemic change.

Avishkar’s fiery speech, delivered in March 2025, became the rallying cry of the movement. He declared, “We are the fire that will burn away corruption,” words that resonated deeply with the youth and inspired widespread activism across the country.

The Prime Minister, K.P. Sharma Oli, reportedly fled the country as protests intensified, further fueling the nationwide outcry. Avishkar has continued to lead peaceful demonstrations, emphasizing the importance of non-violence while demanding a government that is accountable, transparent, and responsive to its citizens.

This unprecedented uprising highlights the power of youth activism and social media in shaping modern politics. Avishkar’s leadership proves that age is no barrier to effecting meaningful change and that even teenagers can become catalysts for a nationwide movement.

The story of Avishkar Raut is a powerful reminder that when courage meets purpose, one voice—even from a 16-year-old student—can spark a revolution that shakes an entire nation.