15th June 2023, Kathmandu
Kathmandu Metropolitan Mayor Balen Shah has declared a ban on the screening of Hindi films in Kathmandu until a contentious dialogue in the upcoming South Indian film ‘Adipurush’ is rectified.
The controversial statement, “Janki is an Indian daughter,” has caused outrage in both Nepal and India.
Mayor Balen Shah emphasized that the dialogue not only undermines the cultural and historical significance of Nepal but also misrepresents the relationship between Nepal and India. Until the filmmakers address this issue and remove the statement from the film, Hindi films will be prohibited from being screened within the Kathmandu Metropolitan City limits.
“Adipurush,” a highly anticipated South Indian film starring renowned actors, has been making headlines for its portrayal of Hindu mythology. However, this particular dialogue has sparked a wave of controversy, leading to the ban imposed by Mayor Balen Shah.
While some critics argue that the ban infringes upon artistic freedom and could strain relations between Nepal and India, supporters of the decision assert that it is crucial to protect national integrity and the historical accuracy of cultural representations.
The ban on Hindi films in Kathmandu will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the city’s entertainment industry, which heavily relies on Bollywood releases. Cinema owners and distributors are expressing concern over the financial repercussions of the ban.
It remains to be seen how the filmmakers of “Adipurush” will respond to this development and whether they will address the issue raised by Mayor Balen Shah. In the meantime, moviegoers in Kathmandu will have to seek alternative options for their cinematic entertainment until a resolution is reached.
The controversy surrounding the dialogue in “Adipurush” highlights the delicate balance between artistic expression, cultural sensitivity, and national identity, and has sparked a broader conversation about the impact of cinema on cross-cultural relations.