KATHMANDU: Artists staged a peaceful protest at Maitighar Mandala to defend freedom of expression in art, film, and literature.

The demonstration was organized collectively by groups including the Nepal Film Association, Producers Association Nepal, Film Artists Association Nepal, Directors Society Nepal, and Film Critics Society Nepal after the Patan High Court ordered a temporary halt to the screening of the movie Lalibazar.

Organizers said the protest was held against interference in freedom of expression and artistic liberty.

During the program, participating artists wore black armbands for 15 minutes as a symbolic protest and shared their views.

The Patan High Court had ordered that the screening of Lalibazar be suspended until Baisakh 22. The writ petition was filed by Roshani Nepali on behalf of the concerned community, objecting to certain words used in the film.

Directed by Yam Thapa, Lalibazar is based on the struggles of women from the Badi community.

The film was scheduled for release starting May 1.