Kathmandu, October 26

The Ministry of Home Affairs has appealed to Tihar revellers to conclude all cultural programmes, including deusi-bhailo, by 10:00 pm.

Deusi-Bhailo is a traditional programme organised during Tihar festival. People in groups visit homes and sing and dance, seeking dakshina as part of this tradition. Last year too, people were allowed to organise deusi-bhailo programmes till 10:00 pm.

The ministry said it set the deadline for deusi-bhailo only till 10:00pm to ‘prevent criminal activities’. A press release issued by MoHA Spokesperson Balkrishna Panthi, said, “The government would like to appeal to everyone to conclude their cultural shows, including deusi-bhailo, by 10:00 pm to help maintain law and order during the festival as persons involved in malicious activities might disturb peace and security.”

The ministry has also warned not to produce, possess, import, export, sell and burst firecrackers in the name of celebrating festivals like Tihar and Chhath as the smoke emanating from such items could pose threats to public health besides causing injury and fire.

“Any one acting in contravention of the existing laws will be brought to book,” said the release. According to health experts, firecrackers emit gases such as carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide and can cause severe health hazards.