Japanese manga icon becomes emblem of youth protest against social media ban in Nepal

At the bustling Maitighar in Kathmandu, young people have come together to speak out against social media restrictions, corruption, and misuse of taxes, but they are doing it in a way that is anything but ordinary.

Instead of just holding posters or banners, many protesters are waving a striking flag: a black background featuring a skull wearing a hat, bones crossed underneath. At first glance, it might look like something from a pirate story. But it has a deeper meaning.

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The flag draws inspiration from ‘One Piece’, a popular Japanese anime and manga series. It is the symbol of the Straw Hat Pirates, led by the fearless Monkey D. Luffy.

The flag in the anime represents freedom, courage, and rebellion. These themes have clearly resonated with the youth leading this protest.

This isn’t the first time the Straw Hat Pirates’ flag has been used in real-life protests. In 2025, Indonesian truck drivers adopted the flag during weeks of anti-government demonstrations ahead of the country’s Independence Day on August 17.

Also Read: Nepal orders ban on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, X for operating without registration

The drivers were protesting government restrictions on certain oversized trucks and broader issues with administrative handling. They even refused to fly Indonesia’s national flag, using the anime-inspired symbol as a badge of defiance.

The Indonesian government responded strongly. Some officials called the flag a threat to national unity, and attempts were made to ban it in several regions.

Despite this, key figures, including the deputy speaker of Indonesia’s House of Representatives and some regional governors, stated that raising the flag was a form of free speech.

Even President Prabowo Subianto reportedly had no objection, as long as the symbol was not directly compared or equated with the national flag.

Back in Kathmandu, the symbolism is strikingly similar. The skull-and-hat flag is helping the protestors express local frustrations.