Kathmandu, 19 October 2025 – District administration offices across Kathmandu Valley have issued coordinated notices for this year’s Tihar, restricting Deusi-Bhailo performances to prevent obstruction of public movement and to ensure safety. Bhaktapur has barred Deusi-Bhailo in public places entirely, while Kathmandu and Lalitpur have asked performers to end activities by 9:00 pm and keep celebrations orderly.
Key takeaways
- Bhaktapur: Deusi-Bhailo prohibited in public places where it could block roads, footpaths or traffic routes.
- Kathmandu: DAO instructs Deusi-Bhailo and related programs to finish by 9:00 pm and not to obstruct movement; cautions against illegal/unsafe acts. Assistant Chief District Officer Mukti Ram Rijal emphasized celebrations must be “disciplined” and free of complaints. myRepublica
- Lalitpur: Similar guidance – events should be respectful, organised and end by 9:00 pm; no festive stages or puja mandaps may block public ways.
- Officials also urged caution with candles and electric lights and discouraged buying/using fireworks or flammable/explosive materials during celebrations.
Full story
Deusi-Bhailo, one of Nepal’s most recognisable Tihar traditions, will be subject to new local restrictions across parts of the Kathmandu Valley this year. The Bhaktapur District Administration Office has explicitly prohibited performing Deusi-Bhailo in public spaces where performances could obstruct the movement of pedestrians and vehicles. The notice also bans temporary religious stages or festive setups on public footpaths and roads.
In Kathmandu, the District Administration Office issued a public notice asking communities to hold Deusi-Bhailo programmes in a disciplined manner and to conclude all performances by 9 pm. The DAO warned that events that block roads or cause public complaints will not be permitted. The notice further reminded residents to avoid unlawful activities and to take precautions while using candles and electric lights during Deepawali/Tihar.
Lalitpur authorities echoed the same approach – calling for respectful and orderly Deusi-Bhailo programmes that end at 9 pm and do not disturb social or religious harmony or public movement. The Lalitpur DAO also encouraged citizens to report unlawful activity to local police or security agencies.
Security and safety messaging accompanied the notices: district administrations advised people not to buy, sell, transport, store, or use firecrackers, explosive or highly flammable materials, and to be careful with open flames and electrical decorations. The warnings align with the Valley’s long-standing efforts to keep festivals safe and avoid traffic disruption.
District Administration Office (DAO) Says
“The playing of Deusi-Bhailo that obstructs public roads and walkways is not allowed.” – District administration notice.
Why this matters (quick analysis)
- Public safety & traffic flow: Deusi-Bhailo groups that gather on roads can seriously impede emergency and commuter traffic during peak Tihar nights.
- Noise & neighbour complaints: A clear 9 pm cutoff reduces late-night disturbances, improving compliance and fewer complaints.
- Fire safety: Bans and cautions regarding fireworks and open flames reduce risk of fire incidents in densely populated parts of the Valley.
Is Deusi-Bhailo banned everywhere in Kathmandu Valley?
No. Bhaktapur DAO has prohibited Deusi-Bhailo in public places where it may obstruct movement. Kathmandu and Lalitpur have limited performances to end by 9pm and asked for orderly celebrations.
Why are authorities restricting Deusi-Bhailo?
The restrictions aim to prevent road/footpath obstruction, reduce complaints and improve public safety, especially related to fire and traffic during Tihar nights.
What exactly did Bhaktapur DAO order about Deusi-Bhailo?
Bhaktapur District Administration Office prohibited performing Deusi-Bhailo in public places where it can obstruct roads, footpaths or traffic routes; no festive stages or puja mandaps should be set up on public walkways.
Until what time can Deusi-Bhailo be performed in Kathmandu and Lalitpur?
Both Kathmandu and Lalitpur district offices have asked that Deusi-Bhailo and similar programmes conclude by 9 pm and be conducted in an organised, respectful manner.
Are fireworks and firecrackers allowed?
Authorities have warned against buying, storing or using firecrackers and other explosive or highly flammable materials during festival celebrations and asked people to be cautious with candles and electric lights. Penalties may apply under existing laws.
