Kathmandu, April 30 -- Black sunglasses over her eyes, a quiet anger on her face. Dressed in a patterned kurti, she strode toward Maitighar Mandala in visible frustration. Cameras quickly turned towards her, and she was surrounded by people recording videos. Brushing past those taking photos and videos, she joined the protesting group. She tied a black band around her arm and lifted a placard-let cinema speak, let literature be heard, bring out our true stories.

She is actor Swastima Khadka. This was the scene at Maitighar Mandala on Wednesday evening. She had joined a peaceful protest by artists in support of protecting freedom of expression in art, film, and literature.

Alongside her were 'Lalibazar' director Yam Thapa, producers Rabi...