Thousands join Nepalese peace rallies

Thousands of people have taken part in peace rallies across Nepal to call for communal harmony following recent violent demonstrations sparked by the alleged remarks of an Indian film star last month.

People from all walks of life attended the protest in Kathmandu which was the biggest in recent days.

The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry said it had organised the rallies to promote communal peace and harmony, which were crucial for the economy.

There have been a number of peace rallies in response to the violence that followed reports saying the movie star Hrithik Roshan had said he hated Nepal and its people.

Immediately after the comments were reported, businesses owned by Indians and people living along the border with India were attacked.

Mr Roshan denies making the remarks.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service