Kathmandu Mayor takes a stand; bans Adipurush in Nepal: here's why

Prabhas, Kriti Sanon, and Saif Ali Khan starrer Adipurush, which hit theatres on June 16, has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons. The film has faced heavy criticism from netizens who have been vocal about its poor visual effects (VFX) and lacklustre dialogues. Adding to the mounting backlash, the makers of Adipurush recently faced a significant blow as Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah announced a ban on all Indian movies, including Adipurush, in the capital city of Nepal.

The controversy stems from an incorrect reference to the birthplace of Sita in the film. Balen Shah expressed disappointment over the dialogue that portrays Sita as "a daughter of India" while asserting that she was born in Nepal. After the makers failed to make the necessary changes, the Mayor took to social media on Sunday to make an official announcement regarding the ban on Indian films in Kathmandu.

Sharing a note written in Nepali, Balen Shah conveyed his concerns, stating that the Indian film 'Adipurush' has a dialogue claiming Janaki [Sita] was India's daughter. And they have raised objection to the same giving a three-day ultimatum to the makers to correct it.

It further said that it is the duty of the government, government agencies, non-governmental sectors, and Nepali citizens to protect the national interest, preserving Nepal's freedom, independence, and self-respect.

The note further highlighted the issue of cultural encroachment on Nepal due to the film, bringing serious attention to the metropolitan city. Balen Shah emphasized that allowing the film to be shown in other areas within the country and abroad would establish a misleading fact. As a result, the prohibition on screening any Indian film in the Kathmandu metropolitan city will remain in place until the objectionable elements are removed from Adipurush.

The ban on Indian films in Kathmandu adds another layer of controversy to the already embattled Adipurush.