Playwright and Director Sahlesh Dismissed from ‘Lucifer Rising’ Production

Sahlesh, the playwright and director of the play Lucifer Rising, has been dismissed by the production team amid serious allegations of disciplinary violations. Kathmandu, 31 May. Sahlesh was removed from the ongoing theatrical performance at a theater in Thapagaun, Nepal.

The production company, Majhuwa Bagar Janakla Manch, issued a statement on Saturday announcing his suspension from all organizational duties and imposing a complete ban on his participation in any future projects.

The accusations against Sahlesh involve acting against the core principles of the institution, along with serious disciplinary breaches. Since the premiere on 15 May, he is alleged to have deviated from the officially approved script by making unnecessary additions and omissions, and by using excessively obscene language during the performance.

Furthermore, Sahlesh is accused of spreading unwarranted rumors against the government and claiming threats to his personal security without providing any concrete evidence, according to the production team.

The statement also highlights misuse of the organization’s official social media accounts to release misleading announcements and conducting activities that have disgraced the entire theatrical community. These actions led to his immediate termination.

Another cited reason for his dismissal was the unexpected introduction of a new character wearing a black Bhadagaun hat and black sunglasses at the end of the play, which the institution found unacceptable.

Following the dismissal, the play, which had faced uncertainty in recent days, is scheduled to resume performances from 31 May. The new leadership will be undertaken by actor Buddhi Ram Chaudhary. Additionally, the play will be relaunched with a new title: Lucifer Rising 2.0: A Gen-Z Play.

Attempts to contact Sahlesh for comment on his dismissal were unsuccessful.