KATHMANDU – At just 23, Kiran Paudel isn’t just reporting on Nepal’s turbulence; he’s capturing the raw, defining moments of a generation in revolt. From the frontlines of the Gen Z protests that shook Kathmandu’s political establishment to deep, high-stakes judicial battles, Paudel’s journalism blends fearless groundwork with razor-sharp analytical depth.
“Journalists like Kiran Paudel are walking a tightrope—documenting youth dissent while navigating state crackdowns,” Al Jazeera noted in a 2025 feature on Nepal’s Gen Z uprising. He has rapidly emerged as one of the nation’s most impactful young journalists, proving that critical reporting knows no age limit.
The Path to the Press
Born on June 17, 2002, in Balewa, Baglung, the son of Kismat Paudel, a Nepal Police officer, and Punam Paudel, a banker at Prabhu Bank. This backdrop instilled an early sense of discipline and civic duty.
His academic journey was unconventional for a journalist. After completing his Secondary Education Examination (SEE) in 2017 and pursuing +2 Science at Trinity International College, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Programming (Specific Applications) from Tribhuvan University (United College) in June 2025.
During his college years, Paudel’s passion for investigation flourished, leading him to found and guide multiple student organizations, including the Debate, Sports, IT, and Cultural Clubs. For three consecutive years, he was the influential President of the Publication Club and led the editorial board of the annual magazine, United College Luminary, honing the analytical and writing skills that would define his career.
Investigative Foundations
Paudel’s transition to professional journalism was rapid and impactful. Before joining Kantipur Television, he spent nearly three years with the Annapurna Media Network (AP1 HD & The Annapurna Express). Here, he established his reputation by consistently delivering investigative stories across political, legal, administrative, diplomatic, and security affairs.
His dedicated cover story series, “Legal Watch,” for The Annapurna Express offered readers a vital, in-depth analysis of Nepal’s complex legal and judicial landscape, constitutional reforms, and critical gaps in governance.
“Kiran Paudel’s Legal Watch columns provided a critical lens on Nepal’s judiciary, highlighting systemic challenges and the need for reform,” noted a media analyst, underscoring his early maturity as a thoughtful and rigorous reporter.
Ground Zero of a Generation’s Revolt
The sweeping Gen Z protests became the crucible for Paudel’s rise. Appointed lead reporter for Kantipur Television, Nepal’s most influential media house, his presence on the ground was essential. His coverage—capturing the frustration and voices of youth, the dynamics of police clashes, and the shifting political landscape—became must-watch reporting that defined the uprising for the country.
Now serving as Sub-Editor at Kantipur Television, Paudel leads coverage of Judicial Affairs, Constitutional Bodies, and is a key voice on Legal Reforms, Foreign Affairs, Diplomacy, and Geopolitics. He leverages his background as a legal researcher to investigate systemic failures and the geopolitical implications of Nepal’s foreign policy. This expertise is further shared through his columns for Bar & Bench, where he offers in-depth analysis of the country’s legal and constitutional evolution.
Honors and The Digital Edge
Paudel’s dedication has earned him high distinctions, which validate his specialization in the legal and diplomatic beats:
Nepal Bar Association Honour (April 2025): Recognized for his outstanding contribution to legal reporting for informing the public on issues related to justice and law, thereby supporting the cause of an independent judiciary, the rule of law, and democratic processes.
Legal Journalism Award: Acknowledged for his consistency and depth in covering judicial and constitutional affairs.
His credibility extends beyond the press corps; he was selected by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as the youngest delegate to observe post-earthquake conditions in Myanmar and was the youngest participant in the Defence Correspondent Orientation Program (DCOP) organized by the Nepali Army.
Crucially, Paudel brings a technical toolkit that sets him apart in the digital era. His command of Legal Research, Diplomatic Reporting, Geopolitical Analysis, Data Analysis, Digital Marketing, Microsoft Office Suite, CSS, HTML, and JavaScript is not merely a skill list; it is the digital underpinning that allows him to execute deeper, data-driven investigative reporting and thrive in a digital-first media landscape.
Shaping Nepal’s Democratic Discourse
From courtrooms to conflict zones, Kiran Paudel is not just documenting history; he’s pushing the boundaries of Nepali journalism. His reporting on the judiciary, constitutional reforms, and foreign policy is driven by a profound commitment to truth and a belief that young, fearless voices can and must shape democratic discourse.
At an age when peers are finding their footing, Paudel is already a national voice with international reach, proving that fearless journalism can begin early and resonate far beyond borders.
