Kathmandu: Actor and producer Deepak Raj Giri has expressed dissatisfaction with the circulation of edited videos of his past remarks on social media, accusing some users of taking his words out of context and using them to promote a boycott of his latest film, Chha Maya Chhapakkai 2.
The controversy emerged after the release of the film’s nine-day box office report, which prompted discussions about its commercial performance. Amid the debate, several social media users began sharing clips of Giri’s previous statements alongside claims that the film had failed to meet expectations. Some posts also appeared to encourage audiences to boycott the movie.
Responding to the criticism, Giri clarified that his remarks had been misrepresented. He said he had never advocated chasing, beating or driving people away, but had instead argued that disagreements should be addressed through reasoned debate.
“Chasing, beating or driving anyone away is not right. If you disagree with someone, challenge them intellectually,” Giri said, recalling his earlier remarks.
He expressed surprise and anger at seeing his photograph used in social media posts associated with boycott calls. According to Giri, portions of his statement had been edited out, while unrelated contexts were added to change its intended meaning.
Giri also criticised what he described as attempts to exploit ethnic identity and extremism for political purposes. He argued that promoting hatred and deepening divisions along caste and ethnic lines could undermine Nepal’s longstanding tradition of social harmony and tolerance.
Emphasising the role of art and culture in bringing people together, the actor said creative platforms should not be used to fuel social divisions. He reiterated his opposition to the use of caste and religion to advance political interests or spread hostility.
“I have always opposed, and will continue to oppose, attempts to turn every issue into an ethnic one, use extremism to create conflict in a society that has upheld tolerance for generations, and spread hatred by introducing caste divisions into art and culture for political gain,” Giri wrote in his social media post.
He concluded his statement by reaffirming his opposition to efforts to divide society through the politicisation of caste and religion, ending with the words, “Jai Nepal.”
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