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:

Tihar Festival Begins Today, Marking Five Days of Lights, Worship, and Celebration:
Tihar, Nepal’s second-largest Hindu festival, begins today, celebrating light, prosperity, and the bond between humans and animals. Also known as Yama Panchak, the five-day festival starts with Kaag Tihar (crow worship), followed by Kukur Tihar (dog worship), Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja (cow and goddess of wealth worship), Goru Puja (ox worship), and concludes with Bhai Tika, honoring the bond between brothers and sisters. For the Newar community, the fourth day is celebrated as Mha Puja, the worship of one’s soul. Homes are adorned with colorful lights and flowers, while families exchange delicacies, perform deusi-bhailo, and light oil lamps to celebrate.

President Paudel Orders Security Chiefs to Ensure Fear-Free Elections:
President Ram Chandra Paudel has directed Nepal’s security agencies to guarantee that the upcoming elections are conducted freely, fairly, and without fear. At a high-level meeting in Sheetal Niwas with interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki, ministers, and security chiefs, Paudel urged bold action to maintain peace and restore public confidence. He called for the recovery of looted weapons and the re-arrest of escaped inmates from the September 9 unrest. Prime Minister Karki pledged full government support to ensure fair and secure polls. Security leaders assured the President of their readiness, citing past experience managing elections in even tougher conditions.

Oli Accuses Government of Arming Criminals, Calls Current Regime “Unconstitutional”:
CPN-UML Chairman and former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has accused the government of endangering national security by allowing looted police firearms and bullets from the Gen-Z protests to fall into criminal hands. Speaking at the party’s central office in Chyasal, Oli said 1,200 police weapons and around 100,000 bullets, along with 5,500 freed convicts, are contributing to an “extremely dire” situation. He questioned the government’s ability to conduct fair elections, calling them a “drama election,” and criticised restrictions on his movement, including being barred from visiting his burned house. Oli reaffirmed UML’s stance against the “regressive and illegitimate” regime.

Prachanda Calls Oli’s Demand to Reinstate HoR “Ridiculous,” Urges Focus on Elections:
CPN (Maoist Centre) coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has dismissed CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli’s call to restore the dissolved House of Representatives as “ridiculous.” Speaking at a tea reception organized by the All Nepal Trade Union Federation, Dahal criticized those who repeatedly dissolved parliament for now demanding its reinstatement. He urged Oli and other political forces to accept the current reality and prioritize the success of the upcoming elections, warning that delays could trigger political instability. Dahal emphasized that timely elections are essential to safeguard the constitution and democracy and called for unity to prevent attempts to provoke or derail the process.

Gen-Z Leader Miraj Dhungana Vows Party Will Skip Elections Without Systemic Reforms:
Gen-Z activist Miraj Dhungana announced that his newly formed political party will not contest elections unless Nepal implements a directly elected executive system and grants voting rights to citizens abroad. Speaking at a party event at the Everest Hotel in Kathmandu, Dhungana emphasized that the party’s focus is on systemic political reform rather than immediate electoral participation. He called on Gen-Z members to unite under a single platform, arguing that scattered activism cannot bring meaningful change. Rising to prominence during the September 8–9 protests, Dhungana aims to channel the youth movement’s energy into organized political action to challenge the entrenched political order.

Nepali Congress Postpones Central Committee Meeting to Mourn Leader Rishikesh Gautam:
The Nepali Congress has postponed its Central Working Committee meeting to October 30 following the death of senior leader Rishikesh Gautam. Gautam, 84, a former minister, parliamentarian, and founding member of the Nepal Students’ Union, passed away at his residence in Kathmandu on October 17. The party expressed deep sorrow and passed a condolence motion in his honor, recognizing his lifelong contribution to Nepal’s democratic movements and Congress organization. To pay tribute, the party will lower flags to half-mast from October 18–20, close offices on October 19, and keep condolence books for 13 days, culminating in a memorial gathering.

Nepal Police Arrest Two Indian Nationals for Kidnapping and Hostage Case:
Nepal Police have arrested two Indian nationals, 24-year-old Parampreet Singh and 28-year-old Labaprit Singh from Punjab, for kidnapping and holding a 26-year-old man from Haryana hostage. The suspects allegedly lured the victim with a false promise of sending him to Australia and demanded a ransom of Rs 2 million while keeping him confined in Hotel Room No. 6 in Sundhara, Kathmandu. The District Police Range acted on a tip-off and recovered four mobile phones linked to the crime. Kathmandu District Court has extended their remand by seven days, and the investigation is ongoing, according to Superintendent of Police Pawan Kumar Bhattarai.

Government Spends 18.56% of Annual Budget in First Quarter of FY 2082/83:
The government has spent 18.56 percent of its total annual budget in the first quarter of the current fiscal year 2082/83 (2025/26), according to the Financial Comptroller General Office. By mid-October, total expenditure reached Rs 364.58 billion out of the Rs 1,964.11 billion budget. Current expenditure stood at Rs 256.80 billion (21.75%), capital expenditure at Rs 19.18 billion (4.7%), and fiscal management expenses at Rs 88.60 billion (23.61%). Revenue collection totaled Rs 253.01 billion, or 16.51 percent of the annual target, while foreign grants reached only Rs 2.72 billion (3.76%), highlighting sluggish performance in both capital spending and aid inflow.

Kulman Ghising Calls for Expanding Urban Development Fund Toward Green and Revenue-Generating Projects:
Urban Development Minister Kulman Ghising has urged the expansion of the Urban Development Fund (UDF) to include revenue-generating and environmentally sustainable projects. Reviewing the fund’s operations, Ghising said investments should target e-mobility, waste management, and energy production to ensure long-term financial returns. He pledged government support for necessary legal reforms and expressed optimism about upcoming recognition under the Green Climate Fund, which could attract major financing for green initiatives. UDF Executive Director Binod Prakash Pandit reported a Rs 7 billion equity base and Rs 16 billion in total loan disbursements, funding projects such as bus parks, water systems, and municipal reconstruction.

New Motorable Bridge Over Setokhola Stream Completed in Mustang:
A 25-meter motorable bridge has been constructed over the Setokhola stream in Thasang Rural Municipality–3, Mustang, under the Beni–Jomsom–Korala section of the national pride Kali Gandaki Corridor, connecting China and India. The 11-meter-wide RCC bridge, costing Rs 63.58 million, eliminates the need to ferry vehicles across the river. According to Project Office Information Officer Bishnu Chapagain, 13 of the 24 planned bridges along the 202-kilometer road have been completed. Construction of two more motorable bridges over the Kaihku and Kowang rivers is in its final stages, further enhancing connectivity and supporting the development of Mustang’s strategic transportation infrastructure.

Police Block Royalist Motorcycle Rally Demanding Monarchy Restoration:
Police on Saturday prevented royalist groups, including Shahi Yuwa Shakti Nepal, from staging a motorcycle rally in Kathmandu. The groups had gathered in Samakhusi with plans to ride through Ekantakuna to Narayanhiti Palace, calling for the restoration of the monarchy and a corruption-free society. Security forces cordoned off the demonstrators, stopping their procession before it could begin. The rally was part of a recent wave of royalist activities gaining visibility amid national unrest following the Gen-Z movement. Police said the measure was taken to maintain public order and prevent potential clashes or traffic disruption in the capital.

Nepali Film ‘Soltini’ Releases New Song Ahead of Kartik 6 Launch:
The Nepali film Soltini, set to release on Kartik 6, has unveiled a new song, “Bachunjel Po,” composed and written by Prashant Siwakoti, with vocals by Siwakoti and Jhuma Limbu. The melodious, emotionally rich song reflects the film’s narrative of an inter-caste love story, highlighting social inequality, community divisions, and struggles in love. Directed by Arjun Subedi, the movie stars Prakash Saput and Pariksha Limbu, supported by a strong ensemble cast. Following an engaging trailer, the promotional campaign includes the cast performing deusi-bhailo across major cities—Damak, Dharan, Pokhara, and Kathmandu—to connect with audiences and promote both the film and Nepali cultural awareness.

Director Tank Budhathoki Unveils New Poster for Film Man Binako Dhan:
Director and producer Tank Budhathoki has released a new poster for his film Man Binako Dhan, showcasing the main cast. Unveiled on social media Friday morning, the poster features child actor Ashok Darji alongside actors Saroj Khanal, Nita Dhungana, Ramesh Bishwakarma, Bhola Sapkota, Buddhi Tamang, and Ravindra Jha. The updated poster highlights the ensemble cast more prominently, whereas the first poster had featured only Ashok Darji. This refreshed visual aims to give audiences a broader glimpse of the film’s characters and star power, generating anticipation ahead of the movie’s release and strengthening its promotional campaign.

178 Nepali Film Professionals Awarded Professional ID Cards by Film Development Board:
The Film Development Board of Nepal has awarded professional ID cards to 178 film industry workers with over two decades of service, in a special ceremony chaired by Board Chair Dinesh DC on Friday. Special guest, Ministry of Information, Communication, and Technology’s Undersecretary Koshhari Niraula, attended the event. Previously, the board had honored industry veterans with over 30 years of contribution with “Distinguished Film Worker ID Cards.” Alongside recognition, the initiative includes health insurance—Rs 150,000 annually for distinguished workers and Rs 75,000 for general professionals. DC emphasized that the IDs establish professional identity, social security, and international recognition, reinforcing the board’s commitment to the film community.

Singer Neetu Paudel Attempts Self-Immolation in Kathmandu:
Nepali singer Neetu Paudel reportedly attempted self-immolation on Saturday afternoon outside a recording studio in Anamnagar, Kathmandu, by setting herself on fire with petrol. She was immediately taken to Kirtipur Burn Hospital for treatment, according to the Kathmandu District Police Office. Authorities have not yet determined the reason behind Paudel’s desperate act. Police are investigating the incident to understand the circumstances and ensure her safety. The shocking attempt has raised concerns about mental health and wellbeing among artists, highlighting the need for timely support and intervention for individuals facing personal crises.

Rohit Paudel Hopes to Face India and Australia in 2026 T20 World Cup:
Nepal cricket team captain Rohit Paudel said he is eager to face top sides like India and Australia in the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup, to be held in India and Sri Lanka. Speaking after Nepal’s win over Samoa, Paudel expressed excitement about competing against world-class teams, including England and New Zealand, and showcasing Nepal’s growing strength. He credited coaches, officials, and players for the successful World Cup qualification campaign and thanked fans for their unwavering support. Confident of strong performances, Paudel said many Nepali supporters would likely travel to India to cheer for the team during the tournament.

Anil Kumar Sah and Shahab Alam Return to Nepali National Cricket Team:
Wicketkeeper-batsman Anil Kumar Sah and bowler Shahab Alam have made their return to the Nepali national cricket team for the Triangular Series involving UAE and the USA, part of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2. The series will begin at Dubai International Stadium on October 26, with Nepal facing the USA first. Anil, absent since June 17 due to injury, rejoins after missing prior World Cup qualifier matches, while Alam was part of the T20I series against West Indies in Dubai. Nepal, currently seventh with 12 points from 16 games, will play UAE on October 30 and USA on November 1 before returning home.

Nepal Cricket Team Arrives in UAE for Triangular Series After T20 World Cup Asia-Pacific Victory:
The Nepali cricket team, champions of the ICC T20 World Cup Asia and East Asia-Pacific qualifier, arrived in the United Arab Emirates from Oman today to participate in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 Triangular Series. The series, featuring Nepal, UAE, and the USA, begins on October 26 with Nepal facing the USA in the opening match, and each team will play the others twice. Nepal, seventh in the eight-team League 2 with 12 points from 16 matches, had earlier toured UAE to play a T20I series against West Indies, winning 2-1 in their first-ever series victory against a Test nation.

Fire at Bangladesh’s Hazrat Shahjalal Airport Cargo Area Nearly Contained, Flights Diverted:
A fire that erupted in the cargo section near Gate 8 of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka around 2:30 pm is now nearly under control, according to airport spokesperson Flight Lt Masud. Thirty-six firefighting units, including Bangladesh Fire Service, Navy, Air Force, and Border Guard Bangladesh, are involved in extinguishing the blaze. The airport remains closed until 9:00 pm, leading to the diversion of at least five flights to Shah Amanat and Osmani International Airports, with a total of 12 domestic and international flights already rerouted. All aircraft at the airport are confirmed safe, and outbound passengers await resumption of operations.

Trump Optimistic on Ending Russia-Ukraine War Ahead of Putin Meeting, Hesitant on Tomahawk Missiles:
US President Donald Trump expressed optimism about ending Russia’s war in Ukraine, citing momentum from the Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. Speaking Friday, Trump suggested that a successful outcome might be possible even without providing Ukraine with long-range Tomahawk missiles, though he remains hesitant on the sale. He hopes his upcoming meeting with Vladimir Putin in Hungary could bring peace closer, while acknowledging Russia may be seeking to buy time. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, emphasizing the challenges of territorial issues, held talks with European and NATO leaders to coordinate strategy, expressing cautious confidence that, with international support, the war could be halted.