Kathmandu’s Mayor Bans Indian Movies

The movie “Adipurush” has sparked criticism both in India and abroad, leading to the makers agreeing to make changes to certain dialogues. In response, Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah announced on social media that no Indian movies will be screened in the Kathmandu Metropolitan area. The mayor issued a three-day ultimatum for the removal of the statement “Sita is the daughter of India,” threatening to ban all Indian movies if the dialogue wasn’t edited out within that time frame. As a result, “Adipurush” did not release in Kathmandu, and the mayor has now extended the ban until the objectionable part is removed. Nepal’s film certification board has also stated that permission to screen the film will only be granted after changing the dialogue that refers to “Sita as India’s daughter.”

The mayor expressed that the dialogue is objectionable as it undermines Nepal’s nationality, cultural unity, and national identity. He emphasized the need to protect the national interest and preserve Nepal’s freedom, independence, and self-respect. The controversy surrounding “Adipurush” extends to India as well, with criticism directed at the film for allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments with its dialogues involving Hindu deities. In response to public objections, the writers have announced revisions to the dialogues that were deemed offensive. The movie’s association with the BJP has also drawn criticism from opposition leaders.
Re-reported from the article originally published in Hindustan Times