National Folk Song Institute to Take Legal Action Against Obscenity in Folk Music

Kathmandu. The National Folk and Dohori Song Institute has decided to take strict action against the increasing obscenity and perversion in the folk music sector. The institute has prepared to take legal action after widespread criticism arose regarding the viral live dohori of singer Prakash Adhikari and singer Kopila Chhinal, the stage performance of singer Jyoti Magar, and the dance of model Riya Khadka in a religious place.

Rita Thapa Magar, president of the Folk and Dohori Song Institute, stated that those who introduce perversion in songs and music will not be spared under any circumstances. This time, the institute is not limited to internal warnings but is preparing to pursue legal remedies. According to President Thapa Magar, discussions are underway to meet with the Minister of Culture and submit a memorandum, and to coordinate with the Cyber Bureau for action under cybercrime. The institute has also urged the concerned artists to apologize in writing and provide information about this.

President Thapa mentioned that not only singers but also studio operators, musicians, and audiences who laugh and support such performances are equally at fault for this perversion. She questioned, 'Should folk music be like this?' The institute has called all concerned parties to the office for discussion. She indicated that strict actions, including reconsidering or suspending membership, would be taken against those who tarnish folk culture for cheap popularity and financial gain.

The live dohori used in the performance released through singer Prakash Adhikari's YouTube channel has been deemed to have caused serious damage to Nepali civilization due to the words and gestures used. Similarly, the 'indecent' activities shown by singer Jyoti Magar at a festival in Gulmi and the dance performed by model Riya Khadka in a religious area, which disturbed cultural beliefs, have also drawn objections. Lok Sanchar Karmí Nepal also issued a statement on Monday expressing objection.

Realizing that preserving folk culture is everyone's responsibility, the institute has now planned to work with state bodies to stop such activities.