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.

Over Half a Million Leave Kathmandu Valley as Dashain Begins:
As Dashain celebrations commence, more than 550,000 people have departed Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley, creating a massive festival exodus. The Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police reported that from Ghatasthapana until Monday morning, 553,261 passengers left the capital, while around 252,755 returned. Peak movements between September 27–28 alone saw 111,639 departures in 18,613 vehicles. To manage the surge, additional traffic personnel were deployed at border crossings and parking zones, said SSP Navaraj Adhikari. The figures underscore the scale of Nepal’s largest festival migration, reflecting both cultural devotion and the logistical challenges of ensuring smooth transit for hundreds of thousands heading home.

Hindus Celebrate Maha Astami with Worship, Sacrifices, and Midnight Rituals:
Hindus across Nepal are observing Maha Astami today, the eighth day of the ten-day Bada Dashain festival, by worshiping Goddess Durga Bhawani. Devotees offer special prayers to Mahakali, Mahalaxmi, and Maha Saraswati, honoring the day when Goddess Durga is believed to have attained power. From early morning, people thronged temples and shrines in Kathmandu Valley and nationwide, offering animal sacrifices—mainly goats, ducks, and roosters—while others used vegetables and fruits as substitutes. Special Durgapuja rituals were performed at Dashain Ghars and armories, with worship extended to weapons, vehicles, and machines. At Hanumandhoka, the traditional midnight Kalaratri ritual marks the day’s climax.

UML Youth Wing Condemns Government’s Move to Block KP Sharma Oli’s Passport:
The National Youth Association Nepal, affiliated with the CPN-UML, has strongly objected to the government’s decision to block the passports of party chair and former prime minister KP Sharma Oli and others. In a statement Tuesday, Association President Kshitiz Thebe warned that actions driven by “suspicion, prejudice, and political revenge” are unacceptable. The youth wing said it is open to cooperating with investigations but denounced the move as treating individuals as guilty without due process. The group also opposed legal action against UML Politburo member Mahesh Basnet, labeling it political retaliation. The restrictions stem from a Gen-Z probe commission recommendation.

Kathmandu Welcomes New Living Goddess Aryatara Shakya:
Kathmandu has a new Living Goddess. On Tuesday, two-and-a-half-year-old Aryatara Shakya of Itumbahal was anointed as the Kumari in a sacred ceremony at the Kumari Ghar, Basantapur. Following centuries-old traditions, she was ritually installed on the Kumari throne at an auspicious hour, marking her formal entry into one of Nepal’s most revered cultural roles. The outgoing Kumari, Trishna Shakya, was honored with musical processions and ceremoniously escorted home. Worshipped as the embodiment of Goddess Mahalaxmi, the Kumari holds a central place in the Valley’s spiritual and cultural identity, symbolizing continuity of faith, heritage, and divine blessing for Kathmandu.

Jaleshwor Prison Escapees Given October 6 Deadline to Surrender:
Authorities at Jaleshwor Prison have issued a final call for inmates who escaped during the chaos of the Gen-Z movement on September 9 to return by October 6. Jailer Ashok Chhetri said an official notice has been circulated, warning that those failing to surrender within the deadline will face prosecution under the Prison Act 2079 BS and other laws. The notice also cautions that individuals providing shelter or assistance to fugitives will face legal consequences. Of the 576 inmates who fled, including 40 Indian nationals, 262 have voluntarily returned to custody so far, leaving more than half still at large.

Traffic Resumes on Narayangadh–Muglin Road After Landslide Clearance:
A landslide carrying mud and debris near the Tuiun Khola bridge along the Narayanghat–Muglin road section has been cleared, and the road reopened just minutes ago.
The Road Division Bharatpur’s machines and crews were immediately mobilized to clear the debris, and transportation services have now resumed along the route. Authorities have urged drivers and passengers to remain cautious while traveling, as the area is prone to frequent landslides during the rainy season.

Madhav Kumar Nepal Calls for Unity, Fair Elections in Bada Dashain Message:
Unified Socialist chair and former Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal has urged unity, cooperation, and collective effort to achieve a prosperous Nepal. Extending greetings to Nepalis at home and abroad on the occasion of Bada Dashain, he emphasized that safeguarding the diverse cultures of Nepal’s ethnic groups would strengthen social harmony and national unity. Nepal also called on all stakeholders to help ensure free and fair elections on the scheduled date, underscoring the importance of protecting the democratic republican system established through people’s struggles. He stressed that only through unity and accountability can the country move toward lasting stability.

Ramechhap–Lukla Flights Resume for Autumn Everest Season:
Flights from Ramechhap to Lukla have resumed, marking the start of the autumn trekking and climbing season for Mount Everest. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal confirmed that airlines including Sita Air, Tara Air, and Summit Air are operating services from Ramechhap’s Manthali Airport, which serves as the primary gateway to Lukla. Tour operators are transporting tourists by road from Kathmandu to Manthali, from where they fly to Lukla for Everest expeditions and base camp treks. According to CAAN official Prajwal Guragai, the airport handles 50–65 flights daily in favorable weather, highlighting its critical role in Nepal’s adventure tourism sector.

Nepali Film ‘Soltini’ Releases Title Song ‘Dajuko Sali’ Ahead of Dashain Release:
Ahead of its Kartik 6 release during Bhaitika, the Nepali film Soltini unveiled its title song Dajuko Sali online on Dashain’s Maha Astami. Sung by S.D. Yogi, with lyrics by Arjun Suvedi and music by Harkulus Basnet, the track is arranged by Uday Raj Paudel and choreographed by Mausam Himali. Starring Prakash Saput, Pariksha Limbu, Sundar Dhital, Sabbu Gurung, and Sujan Khatiwada, the song captures the thrill of romance and rural life. Directed by Arjun Suvedi, Soltini highlights love, culture, and social issues, including caste discrimination, through picturesque Nepali locales. Producers Regina Bist and Sansar Chaulagain plan nationwide distribution and digital release via OSR Digital.

Nepali Film ‘Balidan’ Draws Packed Theaters and Rave Reviews Across Nepal:
Released nationwide on Aswin 13 during Phulpati, the Nepali film Balidan has received widespread positive reactions. Packed theaters from Kathmandu to distant districts experienced roaring applause, cheers, and excitement from audiences. Viewers praised the emotional story of a mother and son, with some moved to tears, and many noting the film’s realistic portrayal of contemporary Nepal. Lead actor Sameer Bhatt’s performance and action sequences were widely acclaimed, with several hailing him as a rising action star. Produced by Pawan Bradford Bist and Prem Puri under Ashusen Film Production, the film features over 250 shows nationwide, inspiring patriotism and calls for a sequel.

Nepali Film ‘Maijharo’ Releases Romantic Song ‘Timi Lai Ke Thaha Sanu’ Ahead of Nationwide Release:
The Nepali film Maijharo unveiled its romantic track Timi Lai Ke Thaha Sanu on the special day of Bada Dashain’s Phulpati via OSR Digital’s official YouTube channel. The video showcases the charming love story of lead actors Dhiraj Magar and Miruna Magar, reflecting the film’s original narrative. Directed by renowned comedian Wilson Bikram Rai in his directorial debut, the song features vocals by Anmol Gurung and Asmita Adhikari, with music arranged by Rikes Gurung. Produced under Takme Production, the movie also stars Diya Pun, Buddhi Tamang, and Sunil Thapa among others and is set for nationwide release from Kartik 7, heightening audience anticipation.

Nepal to Compete in Prestigious Hong Kong Sixes Cricket Tournament Alongside 11 Nations:
Nepal will join 11 other nations in the renowned Hong Kong Sixes cricket tournament, scheduled from November 7 to 9 at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground. Celebrating its 33rd edition, the Sixes features a unique six-a-side, six-over format, attracting global cricket stars and offering a platform for emerging players. Nepal is placed in Group A alongside South Africa (A1) and Afghanistan. Top cricketing nations including India, Pakistan, Australia, England, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and hosts Hong Kong (China) will also compete. Teams consist of six players, with each bowler delivering one over except one who can bowl two, emphasizing fast-paced, thrilling matches.

Nepal to Skip CAVBA Women’s Nations League in Uzbekistan:
Nepal will not participate in the upcoming CAVBA Women’s Nations League scheduled in Uzbekistan from October 1 to 5. The tournament, featuring four teams, will include hosts Kazakhstan, Iran, and Tajikistan, but last year’s champion India and Sri Lanka will also be absent. Last year, Nepal finished as runners-up, losing 3–2 to India in the final held at the National Sports Council’s covered hall in Tripureshwor. The Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVBA) released the official match schedule on Tuesday, with Nepal’s name missing. The absence of Nepal marks a significant change from last year’s competitive lineup in the regional women’s volleyball tournament.

Nepal’s Pooja Mahato Leads Southern Jaguars to Malaysian Super Women’s Series Victory:
Nepal’s national women’s cricket team vice-captain, Pooja Mahato, played a key role as the Southern Jaguars clinched the Malaysian Super Women’s Series title. In the final held on Tuesday, the Southern Jaguars defeated the Central Super Girls by seven wickets to secure the championship. Mahato’s participation highlighted Nepalese talent on an international platform, contributing significantly to her team’s success. The victory adds to Mahato’s growing reputation in regional women’s cricket and underscores the increasing presence and impact of Nepalese players in international competitions. Fans celebrated the win as a milestone for Nepalese women’s cricket abroad.

Palestinian Authority Backs Trump’s Gaza Peace Plan, Hamas Signals Cautious Interest:
The Palestinian Authority (PA) welcomed US President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace roadmap, describing it as a “sincere and determined effort” to end fighting between Israel and Hamas. The plan calls for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and a deradicalized Gaza after Israeli withdrawal, excluding Hamas from governance. The PA emphasized that peace requires humanitarian aid, protection of Palestinians, halting annexation, and adherence to international law, aiming for a two-state solution. Hamas indicated it will study the proposal in good faith, while Palestinian Islamic Jihad rejected it. The plan follows Israel’s military campaign in Gaza that began in October 2023, leaving tens of thousands dead or injured.

Trump Warns of “War From Within,” Proposes Military Role in Domestic Crackdowns:
President Donald Trump, speaking to top US military officers in Quantico, Virginia, warned of a “war from within” stemming from crime and immigration. He claimed the military would play a role in crackdowns on Democratic-run cities, emphasizing a need to address domestic unrest before it spirals. Trump announced an order to create a military quick reaction force for civil disturbances, framing it as part of combating internal threats. While opening with praise for the armed forces’ “warrior spirit,” much of the hour-long speech took a political tone, unusual for addresses to military leadership. He also criticized the media as “sleazebags.”