Biography

Khadak Raj Poudel (also known as Ganess Paudel) is a Nepali politician, writer, educator, and social activist from Pokhara. As of March 2026, he serves as the Minister of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation under Prime Minister Balendra Shah and is the elected Member of Parliament representing Kaski-1. He is associated with the Rastriya Swatantra Party and is known for his reform-oriented approach, anti-corruption stance, and focus on youth-driven politics. Born on 2 October 1979 in Pokhara, Poudel built his early identity as a writer and educator, contributing to literature and promoting reading culture. Before entering national politics, he was actively involved in teaching, social work, and independent political activism. His rise from a local independent candidate to a federal minister reflects a growing shift in Nepal’s political landscape toward transparency, accountability, and new leadership.