The release of the upcoming Nepali feature film ‘Lali Bazar’ has encountered a significant legal roadblock. The Patan High Court has issued an interim stay order, effectively halting the movie's screening until at least May 5 (Baishakh 22).
This judicial intervention follows a writ petition filed by Roshni Nepali on behalf of the Wadi community. The petitioner raised serious objections regarding specific terminology and linguistic choices within the film, claiming they are offensive to their community’s dignity.
Justice Prakash Dhungana’s single bench issued the directive just days before the movie was scheduled to hit theaters. According to Information Officer Govind Prasad Koirala, the court has mandated a pause in all exhibition activities until the next hearing.
Directed by Yam Thapa and produced by Shatkon Arts, the film portrays the historical struggles and social realities of women from the Wadi community. Ironically, the stay order arrives right after the Central Film Censor Board granted the movie a ‘Universal’ certificate for public viewing.
Originally slated for an April 30 (Baishakh 18) premiere, the production now remains in limbo. The forthcoming court session will determine whether the film requires further editing or if the stay order will be vacated to allow its release.
