In a society where the very word feminism is met with hostility, its meaning is often misunderstood. Feminism is frequently misinterpreted as a concept that opposes men, rather than what it truly represents.
Before exploring how the status of women has evolved over time, it is important to understand what feminism actually is. Feminism is a movement that gained momentum in the 1970s, though its roots in gender equality are much older. At its core, feminism is about advocating for equal rights and opportunities for all genders.
Understanding feminism
The central themes of feminism are women’s rights and liberalism. While the movement has developed in various ways and taken on different forms, most types of feminism advocate for equality—not superiority. Only radical feminism promotes the idea of special treatment for women; all other branches emphasise equal footing for all.
Turning to the concept of feminism in Nepal: historically, Nepali society has afforded women a place of respect. It is believed that in ancient times, no major decision—whether in the state or household—was made without the consent of women. Although women were not always granted high status in public life, they were not confined solely to domestic roles. Their voices were heard and valued.
During the Kirant dynasty, which held significant influence in Nepal, women were highly respected and worshipped in the form of goddesses. Rituals were often performed by women and children, and women had the right to lead them.
In the subsequent Licchavi period, women held an active role in society and governance. They were allowed to choose their marriage partners and were considered the equal partners of their husbands. Notably, the first written inscription in Nepal—Chabahil ko Abhilekh—was authored by a woman. It mentions her desire to maintain satitwa (chastity or purity), which was later misinterpreted in the Abhilekh of King Mandev. During this time, queens were held in high regard, and married women retained ties with their birth families.
Given this strong historical presence, why is the status of women in Nepal now in such decline?
The turning point
The turning point came during the Rana regime. As the Ranas consolidated power and suppressed the general population, women suffered severely. They were reduced to sources of entertainment for the ruling elite, stripped of agency, and excluded from participation in any work beyond household chores.
While a few women in elite circles had a voice, most—especially female servants and commoners—faced extreme exploitation. The imposition of foreign policies, combined with the Ranas’ oppressive rule, led to a steep decline in the status of women—one that has yet to be fully recovered.
Until 2052 BS (1995 A.D.), women in Nepal did not have equal rights to parental property. It was only after the landmark case Meera Dhungana v. His Majesty’s Government that women gained equal inheritance rights.
However, legal disparities remain. For instance, Section 219 of the Muluki Criminal Code 2074 shows that punishments for rape decrease with the increasing age of the female victim—revealing deeply embedded gender bias in the legal system.
Despite these challenges, Nepal is not entirely lagging behind when it comes to feminism. Legal frameworks are evolving—but society has not kept pace.
In Sudurpaschim, many girls are married and have children at an age when others are just beginning college. In many parts of the country, women are still expected to remain in the kitchen and serve men their entire lives. Nearly every woman in Nepal has a story of being objectified or silenced. Yet, it is often the woman who is blamed—labeled as “too forward”—rather than the man who objectifies or harasses her.
At this point, the issue is no longer just about laws—it is about society and the collective mindset. Without social change, the status of women in Nepal risks continuing its backward slide instead of progressing toward equality.
