Bengaluru/New Delhi: YouTuber-turned-actor Prajakta Koli has cancelled her upcoming trip to Nepal in light of the violent unrest that has gripped the country. The Jugjugg Jeeyo actor took to Instagram on Tuesday to express her grief and extend support to those affected.

Prajakta’s post

Sharing a note on her Instagram Stories, Prajakta wrote:

“What happened in Nepal yesterday is truly heartbreaking. Any form of celebration at such a time feels inappropriate. My heart goes out to the families of those who have suffered. I was really looking forward to being there and meeting everyone, but now isn’t the right time. Hopefully, I’ll get to see you all very soon.”

Her decision comes after shocking visuals and reports of violence circulated online, leaving the actor “deeply disturbed.”

Wider reactions

Actor Manisha Koirala, who hails from Nepal, also condemned the violent crackdown on protesters, calling it a “black day” for her country. Sharing the image of a blood-soaked shoe, she wrote in Nepali: “When bullets respond to the voice of the people, outrage against corruption and demand for justice, it is a black day for Nepal.”

Nepal unrest

  • At least 19 people have died in widespread public protests.
  • Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned amid the crisis.
  • The protests began after the government shut down Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, X, and Reddit, requiring users to register with the Ministry of Communication and IT by August 28.
  • Though the ban was revoked on Monday night, protesters stormed and set fire to Parliament, the President’s Office, the PM’s residence, the Supreme Court, political party offices, and several leaders’ homes.
  • Former prime minister Jhalanath Khanal’s house was torched; his wife later died of burn injuries.
  • The Nepal Army has taken control of security across the country until further notice.

India’s response

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a post on X, expressed anguish over the deaths and called for calm:

“The violence in Nepal is heart-rending. I am anguished that many young people have lost their lives. The stability, peace and prosperity of Nepal are of utmost importance to us. I humbly appeal to all my brothers and sisters in Nepal to support peace.”