Nepal's film industry is in the midst of a revolution, one that is steadily redefining its place on the global cinematic stage. In recent years, a surge of blockbusters and critically acclaimed Nepali films has emerged, challenging the dominance of Hollywood and Bollywood with their compelling storytelling. While the country’s technical infrastructure is still catching up, the sheer passion and commitment to creating authentic, engaging narratives have cemented Nepal as a serious contender in the world of cinema.
Bollywood New Wave Cinema’s director Anurag Kashyap and acclaimed actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui graced the premiere of “Shambhala” in Nepal. Directed by Min Bahadur Bham, “Shambhala” made history as the first Nepali film ever selected for the prestigious Berlin Film Festival, marking a pivotal moment for Nepal’s film industry on the global stage. Lead actor Thinley Lhamo’s exceptional performance, which earned her the Boccalino d'Oro Prize at the Locarno Film Festival, further underscores the rising talent within Nepal’s cinematic landscape. This recognition on both the festival circuit and by industry veterans affirms Nepal's place in the world of influential, global cinema.
Adding to the momentum, “Purna Bahadur ko Sarangi,” became the first Nepali film to surpass Rs 70 crore globally. For context, this success is on par with a Bollywood film grossing INR 700 to 1000 crore or a Hollywood film pulling in 700 million USD. It’s a watershed moment that showcases the immense potential of Nepali filmmakers, who are proving that great cinema doesn’t need an overinflated budget to shine.
The roots of Nepal’s cinematic renaissance can be traced back to the breakout success of “Loot,” but it’s post-pandemic that the Nepali New Wave assert its dominance. The growing popularity of homegrown films reflects a cultural shift, as Nepali audiences increasingly crave stories that reflect their own lived experiences, values, and identity. As global streaming platforms flood the market, viewers are turning to narratives that resonate with their own culture, forging a deeper connection to their social and geographical fabric.
Now, the real challenge lies in harnessing this new wave momentum and elevating Nepali cinema to new global heights. The world is watching, and Nepal’s moment is now. There is a clear opportunity for the Nepali government to rethink its investment priorities. Instead of continuing to pour resources into sectors with limited impact, such as railways and ships, the government could direct funds toward supporting the film industry. Offering incentives such as tax breaks, grants, and infrastructure support could foster a thriving film ecosystem, one that not only meets local demand but garners international attention. Investing in this creative sector would fuel cultural expression, preserve Nepal’s storytelling traditions, and simultaneously stimulate economic growth through tourism, content export, and massive job creation within the creative economy. The useless ideas discussed in parliament, often disconnected from the real needs of the people, only highlight the growing disconnect between policy and progress. The time for change is now, if the government is listening at all.
The Film Development Board, which has long struggled to make a meaningful impact, continues to falter in its mission. Rather than focusing on creating tangible opportunities for filmmakers, the Board has fixated on the outdated idea of purchasing land to build physical studios—a move that seems increasingly irrelevant in an era where content can be created with nothing more than a mobile phone. Furthermore, as generative AI reshapes the creative process, the need for expensive physical spaces is diminishing. Virtual environments now offer limitless possibilities, rendering traditional studios less necessary. The government should focus its resources on nurturing talent, providing financial support, and crafting policies that empower local filmmakers to thrive.
Nepal stands on the cusp of a cinematic renaissance. It possesses a creative energy that could fuel a cultural revolution. With the right governmental policies Nepal could ignite a filmmaking movement akin to Hong Kong’s new wave, a revolution that reshaped the cinematic landscape of the late 20th century. Like Hong Kong filmmakers who transformed their city’s identity through bold narratives and experimental techniques, Nepali filmmakers hold the potential to transform their nation’s cultural narrative and solidify its identity on the global stage.
The Hong Kong New Wave Cinema movement serves as a powerful example of how government support can catalyze creative freedom. In the 1970s and 1980s, filmmakers in Hong Kong benefited from production tax credits and other incentives that allowed them to take risks and push creative boundaries. The government recognized the cultural significance of cinema, understanding its role in reshaping societal narratives.
Production tax credits, which offer rebates on qualifying expenses like labor and materials, could make film production more affordable and accessible. This would not only encourage domestic filmmakers but also attract international talent, eager to capitalize on Nepal's picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and low production costs. Just as Hong Kong filmmakers used their city’s rapid urbanization to explore the complexities of modern life, Nepali filmmakers could draw inspiration from their country’s rich natural landscapes, cultural heritage, diverse ethnicities, and its ongoing political and cultural transformations. These elements provide a deep well of stories that reflect Nepal’s unique identity and the dynamic shifts shaping its future.
Equally important is the introduction of film grants to empower independent voices. The Hong Kong New Wave was not solely driven by tax incentives. It was also propelled by a robust system of government grants that supported emerging filmmakers. In Nepal, these grants could enable low-budget, high-impact projects that push the boundaries of conventional storytelling. By funding experimental work that challenges the status quo, the government could cultivate a generation of filmmakers willing to take creative risks. This would foster innovation, allowing Nepali cinema to carve out a distinctive identity on the world stage. A 50 million US dollar annual grant could fuel Nepal's New Wave Cinema, potentially propelling it to global prominence. The funds from Asian Development bank and the World Bank that have yet to make a significant impact on Nepal's economy could be more effectively utilized by investing in the film industry, driving both cultural renaissance and economic growth.
One area where Nepal could particularly benefit from these partnerships is film tourism. The country’s stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and creative talent make it an ideal location for filmmakers, and with the right incentives, Nepal could emerge as a prime destination for international productions. The Nepal Tourism Board currently spends significant funds on ineffective international campaigns without any result. Instead, these resources could be better allocated to supporting local filmmakers.
King Mahendra recognized the transformative power of cinema to enhance tourism, a vision that continues to hold relevance in today’s globalized world. His foresight in understanding how film can shape a nation’s image and attract international attention remains a powerful tool for promoting Nepal’s rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. Harnessing this potential today could further elevate Nepal’s position as a prime travel destination.
Cinema is reshaping tourism around the world, with trends like "set-jetting" drawing travelers to destinations featured in films and series. Streaming platforms like Netflix fuel this interest, with 80% of foreign viewers of French productions eager to visit France. Domestically, 96% of French citizens watch national films, inspiring visits to filming locations. Iconic franchises like Game of Thrones and The Lord of the Rings have also boosted tourism in Northern Ireland and New Zealand, highlighting the growing influence of cinema on global travel. As films and streaming series continue to capture imaginations, they’re also reshaping travel trends, underscoring the immense influence of cinema on the global tourism industry.
For Nepali cinema to thrive globally, a critical obstacle persists: the government's persistent inertia. Despite the immense potential of the film industry to invigorate both culture and the economy, resources continue to be squandered on outdated, unproductive initiatives. As the world makes progress in the content-driven era, Nepal’s leadership must act decisively to support its filmmakers. If our leaders remain mired in obsolete thinking, Nepal risks losing its chance to establish a meaningful presence on the global cinematic stage.
In short, the new wave cinematic revolution has already begun in Nepal. Despite limited resources, a lack of government support, and, at times, insufficient public backing, the Nepali film industry has proven itself to be full of exceptional talent—whether filmmakers, artists, cinematographers, or beyond. This burgeoning movement showcases the resilience and creativity of the Nepali film community, poised to make its mark on the global stage. With the right policies, Nepal's film industry has the potential to join the ranks of global cinema giants, enhancing the country's cultural influence and securing its place on the global map.
The New Wave of Nepali Cinema is already here. Now, the government must step up and ensure the industry’s future success. It is time for the comrades to move beyond outdated rhetoric from the 18th century’s first industrial revolution and take decisive actions that will position Nepal to thrive in the fourth industrial revolution of the 21st century. This is the moment for progressive policies that embrace innovation, foster creativity, and empower the film industry to become a driving force for cultural and economic growth on the global stage. Nepal has two true potential industries: film and tourism. By nurturing both, the country can secure a leading position in the global creative economy, showcasing its rich culture and vibrant narratives to the world while boosting its economic prospects.