Court Halts Lalibazaar Screening, Nischal Basnet Raises Concerns Over Film Censorship

Kathmandu. Director and actor Nischal Basnet has expressed dissatisfaction after the Patan High Court issued a short-term interim order halting the screening of the film ‘Lalibazaar,’ despite it having already received approval from the Censor Board.  

Sharing his views on Facebook on Tuesday, Basnet said he respected the court’s order but questioned the impact such last-minute decisions could have on filmmakers and the industry. 

“There is no question of not respecting the honorable court’s order. Everyone must comply,” Basnet wrote. “But it is also important to understand what films are made for and how they are made. If decisions are taken at the threshold of release by looking at only one side, the morale of filmmakers will continue to fall.”

In a satirical remark, he suggested that films should now be registered directly with the court instead of the Film Development Board or the Censor Board. 

Why was ‘Lalibazaar’ stopped?

The film, based on the story of the Badi community in western Nepal, was challenged at the Patan High Court by Dr. Roshani Nepali, who claimed it damaged the reputation of the community and portrayed women negatively. 

Upon hearing the writ petition, a single-judge bench of Judge Prakash Dhungana issued a short-term interim order suspending the screening of the film until May 5.

The filmmakers have argued that ‘Lalibazaar’ realistically depicts the exploitation faced by the Badi community and advocates social justice. However, some members of the community have described the portrayal as offensive.

Earlier, the Central Film Censor Board had granted the film a ‘Universal’ (U) certificate, clearing it for audiences of all ages. The film has been scheduled for nationwide release on May 1, but the court order has now put its release in uncertainty.

The court has summoned both sides for discussions on May 5, after which a decision will be made on whether the film can be screened. Filmmakers, including Basnet, have expressed concern that such last-minute legal hurdles after state approval could seriously affect both creative freedom and investment in the film industry.

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