KATHMANDU: Stay updated with Nepal News’ evening briefing, bringing you the day’s most important developments from Nepal and across the globe. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we deliver a concise roundup of the top news you need to know today.

Nepali citizen Bipin Joshi among 48 Israeli hostages in Hamas ‘farewell picture’:
Hamas released a “farewell picture” of 48 Israeli captives held in Gaza, including Nepali national Bipin Joshi, as Israeli forces intensify their offensive in Gaza City. Each captive is labeled “Ron Arad,” referencing the missing Israeli pilot from 1986. Israeli authorities say about 20 captives may still be alive. Joshi’s family has contacted Israeli officials but received no formal update yet.

Global Dashain Tika Timings Announced for Nepalis Abroad:
The International Panchang Decision Committee has fixed auspicious tika timings for Nepali Hindus around the world. In Nepal, tika will be on October 2 (Ashoj 16) at 11:53 a.m., and in India’s capital New Delhi at 11:49 a.m. The U.S. will observe on October 1, with New York (11:25 a.m.), Frankfurt, Kentucky (11:57 a.m.), Owensboro (11:05 a.m.), Texas (11:33 a.m.), Washington DC (11:35 a.m.), California (11:11 a.m.), and Colorado (11:29 a.m.). Canada observes on October 1 in Toronto (11:55 a.m.) and Vancouver (11:33 a.m.). Asia-Pacific: Tokyo (Oct 2, 11:31 a.m.), Sydney (11:43 a.m.), Melbourne (11:19 a.m.), Brisbane (11:53 a.m.), Adelaide (11:35 a.m.), Canberra (11:51 a.m.), Tasmania (11:45 a.m.), Perth (11:25 a.m.), Darwin (11:47 a.m.), Wellington (Oct 2, 11:23 a.m.). Europe: Lisbon (9:23 a.m.), London (9:17 a.m.), Paris (9:57 a.m.), Oslo (10:03 a.m.), Geneva (10:25 a.m.), Malta (10:55 a.m.).
Middle East & Asia: Kuala Lumpur (11:11 a.m.), Abu Dhabi (10:55 a.m.), Doha (10:13 a.m.), Bangkok (10:45 a.m.), Seoul (10:57 a.m.), Tel Aviv (11:35 a.m.), Singapore (11:09 a.m.), Hong Kong (11:45 a.m.), Riyadh (10:55 a.m.), Yangon (10:27 a.m.).
Vice Chair Prof. Devmani Bhattarai said the announcement helps Nepalis abroad observe Dashain tika at the right moment.

Gen-Z Uprising Shakes Nepal’s Politics, But Old Power Structures Remain Intact:
Despite appearing weakened by the Gen-Z uprising, Nepal’s dominant parties—Congress, UML, and Maoist Centre—still control courts, constitutional bodies, bureaucracy, and state mechanisms. This makes governing without their cooperation a major challenge for the newly formed independent-led administration. The youth-led revolt, sparked by anger over corruption and social media restrictions, toppled the government within 48 hours and forced senior leaders underground. Its central demand was direct executive leadership and political accountability. However, Nepal’s history shows that revolutions often collapse into political bargains, leaving systemic corruption and misgovernance intact.

Prime Minister Sushila Karki, a 73-year-old former Chief Justice, faces an uphill battle running a government bound by the 2015 constitution while powerful parties remain in opposition. Legal limits on removing officials from constitutional bodies further constrain reforms. While some youths hail this moment as a “golden era,” questions persist over whether the new leadership can fulfill the uprising’s promise or repeat past failures.

Landslide Blocks Narayangadh–Muglin Road; Clearance Work Resumes Sunday Morning:
Traffic along the Narayangadh–Muglin road remains blocked after a landslide struck at Tuiun Khola, forcing authorities to suspend clearance work until Sunday morning. According to the Chitwan Road Division Office, landslides began around 6:00 p.m. Friday and continued through the night. Efforts to clear the debris started Saturday morning but were halted after another major slide. Chief Narayan Lamichhane said repeated falls buried nearly 100 meters of roadway, making night operations impossible. Stranded passengers spent the night on the road, while police urged travelers to use alternative routes. The landslide site lies 2.5 kilometers from Muglin toward Narayangadh.

Gandaki Government Diverts Program Expenses to Reconstruction:
After the Gen-Z protests caused an estimated loss of Rs 1.5 to 2 billion in Gandaki Province, the provincial government has prioritized reconstruction. In its meeting on Friday, the Cabinet decided to halt expenses on seminars, workshops, visits, and training programs, reallocating the funds for rebuilding and repair works. Any essential programs must now be held in ministry halls instead of hotels or resorts. The government has also suspended meeting allowances for officials and stopped staff transfers. Detailed assessments of damages are underway, spokesperson and Finance Minister Dr. Takaraj Gurung said.

Madhes Provincial Assembly to Convene on September 23:
All parties have agreed to convene the Madhes Provincial Assembly on September 23 in Janakpur. The decision came after a meeting chaired by Speaker Ramchandra Mandal, where members pledged a unified stance on federalism. Assembly member Birendra Prasad Singh confirmed the accord. The Assembly suffered Rs 40 million in damages from arson, vandalism, and looting during the recent Gen-Z protests.

Madhesh Chief Minister Satish Kumar Singh Faces Resignation Pressure Amid Gen-Z Protests:
Madhesh Province Chief Minister Satish Kumar Singh initially announced his resignation via Facebook during the Gen-Z protests on September 24, as widespread arson and vandalism erupted. The announcement followed directives from Janamat Party Chairman Chandrakant (SK) Raut, who withdrew support from Singh and the provincial government. However, after consultations with ruling and opposition parties, including CPN-UML, Nepali Congress, LSP, and CPN-Unified Socialist, Singh reversed his decision, bolstered by confidence in retaining his position. Meanwhile, Janamat Party continued efforts to remove him, recalling two ministers from their cabinet. Political tensions remain high in the province.

Transport Ministry Plans Dashain Road Safety and Passenger Management:
Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Kulman Ghising, met stakeholders to discuss festival-focused transport management and road safety. He directed authorities to provide 24-hour road updates, resolve complaints promptly, and reopen blocked roads caused by floods or landslides without delay. Vehicles leaving Kathmandu Valley will use the Nagdhunga–Sisneri tunnel, with the reverse route after Dashain. Heavy vehicles will be restricted on the Daunne section, while essential goods transport continues. Key highways will be maintained, obstructions cleared, and security strengthened at bus parks and major routes. A 24-hour focal point will oversee nationwide road safety.

Gagan Thapa Calls for Congress Restructuring, Proposes Special General Convention:
Nepali Congress General Secretary Gagan Thapa has urged a sweeping restructuring of the party to address the current national crisis and public sentiment. In a video message on Saturday, Thapa warned that without drastic reforms, the party’s very existence is at risk. Accepting his share of responsibility as general secretary, he proposed two options: either halt membership renewal and directly elect new leadership through the 15th General Convention, or, if not possible, convene a Special General Convention with representatives from the 14th Convention. Citing BP Koirala’s 2012 leadership shift, he stressed bold steps are necessary for Congress’s survival.

PMO Publishes Hotline to Report Delays and Bribery in Public Services:
The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers has urged the public to directly report any cases of delay, bribery, or misconduct while accessing government services. In a notice issued on Saturday, the PMO stated that citizens facing unnecessary hassles, demands for bribes, disrespectful behavior, or deliberate delays at ministries, offices, or agencies should immediately call the hotline. The government emphasized its commitment to improving service delivery and ensuring accountability across public institutions. The PMO has made hotline number 9851145045 available for complaints, encouraging citizens to actively participate in curbing corruption and bureaucratic negligence.

KP Sharma Oli’s Wife Inspects Burned Balakot Home After Gen-Z Protests:
Radhika Shakya, wife of Nepali Congress leader KP Sharma Oli, visited her Balakot residence on Saturday, 12 days after it was burned during the Gen-Z protests. Shakya inspected the ruins of the house she claims to have built, becoming emotional over the loss of both the home and its historical significance, according to former Press Chautari chair Ganesh Basnet. During the protests on September 23–24, demonstrators set fire to leaders’ residences, government buildings, and businesses nationwide. Following the destruction, the Oli family is now staying in Gundu, Bhaktapur.

Nepal’s Most-Awaited Film ‘Balidan’ Trailer Released Ahead of Dashain:
The trailer for Nepal’s highly anticipated film Balidan was released Friday, generating widespread attention. The teaser showcases emotional and action-packed sequences, including Richa Sharma as a mother urging her son to protect the nation, and Samir Bhatt delivering powerful dialogues amid intense combat scenes. Featuring Arpan Thapa, Sougat Malla, and Mahendra Budhathoki, Balidan is set to release on October 2 during Dashain, highlighting patriotism and rebellion.

Nepali Film Duo Niruta Singh and Uttam Pradhan Reunite After Two Decades:
Popular Nepali actors Niruta Singh and Uttam Pradhan are set to appear together on screen again in the upcoming film Mahadasha, marking their first collaboration since the 2003 release Upahaar. Director Kiran Nepali confirmed the reunion on social media, sharing photos and expressing excitement. The film, exploring Nepali culture, astrology, and human destiny, also stars Pramod Agrahari, Prema Lamgade, Hakim Gurung, and Rear Rai.

Trailer Released for Nepali Comedy Film ‘Haribahadurko Jutta’ Ahead of Dashain:
The trailer for the highly anticipated Nepali film Haribahadurko Jutta, directed by Dipendra K. Khanal, has been released. Starring veteran actor Harivansh Acharya as the titular character, the comedy-drama humorously explores his life and satirizes current political issues and youth aspirations. The film also features Swastima Khadka, Prakash Saput, Priyanka Karki, and other popular actors. It is set to release on October 2 (Ashoj 13).

Trailer Released for Nepali Comedy ‘Haribahadurko Jutta’ Ahead of Dashain:
The trailer for the upcoming Nepali film Haribahadurko Jutta, directed by Dipendra K. Khanal, was released, revealing its humorous yet socially insightful storyline. Veteran actor Harivansh Acharya stars as the titular character navigating comedic twists while reflecting on contemporary political issues and youth aspirations. Featuring Swastima Khadka, Prakash Saput, and others, the film, produced by SM Motion Pictures, is set to release on October 2 during Dashain.

Nepal Announces Women’s National Cricket Squad for Malaysia T20 Series:
The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has named the national women’s cricket team for the upcoming T20 series against Malaysia. Experienced player Sita Rana Magar returns after a long injury break, while newcomer Yashoda Bisht earns her first national call-up. Five players from the previous squad—Bindu Rawal, Manisha Upadhyay, Sabnam Rai, Ishwari Bisht, and Roma Thapa—are absent. Replacements include Somu Bisht, Rachana Chaudhary, and Sabitra Dhami. The T20 series will run from October 2–8, preceded by the Malaysian Super Women’s Series from September 24–30, serving as preparation for the Global Qualifier.

Nepal Women’s Cricket Team to Tour Malaysia for T20 Series:
The Nepal Women’s National Cricket Team will travel to Malaysia for a five-match T20 International series against the Malaysian women’s team from October 2–8 (Ashoj 16–22). Ahead of the T20 series, Nepalese players will participate in the Malaysian Super Women’s Series from September 24–30 (Ashoj 8–14), playing across five different teams. The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) announced a 14-member squad on Saturday, featuring Indu Barma, Pooja Mahato, Rammati Airi, Samjhana Khadka, Kavita Joshi, Riya Sharma, Somu Bisht, Rachana Chaudhary, Ruby Poddar, Yashoda Bisht, Sabitra Dhami, Kavita Kunwar, Ruvina Kshetri, and Sita Rana Magar.

Shailesh Shrestha Elected President of Chitwan Taekwondo Association:
Shailesh Shrestha has been elected unopposed as the president of the Chitwan District Taekwondo Association during its third district convention held today in Sauraha. Alongside him, Dhanbahadur Darai was elected vice president and Pradeep Shrestha as treasurer, both unopposed. Members Suraj Paudel, Bikram Shrestha, Ranjan Tamang, Somraj Darai, and Susmita Thapa were also selected. The newly elected committee took their oath of office and confidentiality today. Chief guest Rajan Karki, chairman of the Chitwan District Sports Development Committee, congratulated the team, urging all sports associations to remain apolitical and coordinate closely with the district sports committee.

Liverpool Maintains Perfect Start with 2-1 Derby Win Over Everton:
Liverpool extended their flawless Premier League run by defeating Merseyside rivals Everton 2-1 at Anfield. Ryan Gravenberch opened the scoring in the 10th minute from Mohamed Salah’s assist, and Hugo Ekitike doubled the lead in the 29th. Everton pulled one back through Idrissa Gaye in the 58th minute. Liverpool tops the table with 15 points from five matches, while Everton has seven points.

Russia Launches Massive Drone and Missile Strikes on Ukraine, Kyiv Hits Back at Oil Infrastructure:
Russia launched over 600 drones and missiles targeting nine Ukrainian regions, including Kyiv, Dnipro, Odesa, and Kharkiv, killing at least three and injuring dozens, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. Strikes hit infrastructure, residential areas, and civilian enterprises, including a cluster-munition strike on a Dnipro high-rise. Ukraine’s Air Force intercepted most of the attacks. In retaliation, Kyiv struck Russian oil refineries in Saratov and Samara, targeting energy facilities supplying Moscow’s military. The assaults coincide with the European Commission proposing new sanctions on Russian LNG, banks, and military-linked assets, aiming to intensify pressure on Russia’s war economy.

European Airports Hit by Cyber Disruption, Causing Delays and Cancellations:
Major European airports, including Brussels, Berlin, and London’s Heathrow, experienced cyber-related disruptions on Saturday affecting automated check-in and baggage systems, causing flight delays and cancellations. Collins Aerospace, the system provider, confirmed the MUSE software was impacted and said manual check-in could mitigate disruptions. Brussels Airport reported at least 10 cancellations and 17 delayed flights, while Eurocontrol asked airlines to cancel half of Brussels flights through Sunday. Heathrow and Berlin also faced delays. The company is working to restore full functionality. Cyberattacks on aviation have surged 600% from 2024–2025, highlighting the sector’s vulnerability.