Artists protest court decision halting screening of Lalibazar (With Photos)

Kathmandu — Artists and filmmakers have protested against a court order halting the screening of the Nepali film Lalibazar, calling it a setback for creative freedom. The Patan High Court recently issued an interim order to stop the film’s release following a writ petition that objected to certain content in the movie.

Several prominent figures, including Khagendra Lamichhane, director Pradip Bhattarai, actress Swastima Khadka, producer Rabindra Singh Baniya, and Nischal Basnet, expressed concern over the decision. They argued that films are a medium of expression and should not be restricted at the final stage of release.

The controversy has sparked wider debate within Nepal’s film industry, with stakeholders urging authorities to protect artistic freedom while addressing concerns through dialogue rather than bans.

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