KATHMANDU, Aug. 10: Nepali social drama Gauthali has made an impressive start in the United Kingdom, with sold-out and near-capacity screenings at most theaters following its release on Friday, Aug. 7, 2026.
The overwhelming audience response has prompted Cineworld to add more shows, extending the film’s UK run through Thursday, Aug. 13.
Directed by Dr. Kapil Rijal and written by Dr. Bhola Rijal, Gauthali is a powerful social drama set in rural Nepal. The film follows a young woman determined to continue her education despite poverty, child marriage, and deeply rooted social traditions.
Through its emotional story, music, and striking cinematography, the film explores education, women’s empowerment, child marriage, gender inequality, and social change. It also highlights the resilience of women struggling for a better and more independent life.
Produced by Suman Giri and Dr. Kapil Rijal, the film stars Arun Chhetri and Simran Khadka, alongside veteran and popular actors Madan Krishna Shrestha, Prakash Ghimire, Luniva Tuladhar, and Rabindra Jha.
Gauthali was released in Nepal on July 17, 2026, and has continued its successful theatrical run.
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Dignitaries attend Aldershot premiere
The first-day screening at Cineworld Aldershot on Aug. 7 was attended by Acting Nepali Ambassador to the UK Bipin Duwadi, Defense Attaché Brigadier General Anup Shah, and other distinguished guests.
After watching the film, the guests praised its cinematography, storytelling, and focus on major social issues, particularly education, women’s empowerment, and the challenges created by harmful social practices.
Acting Ambassador Duwadi said the film presented social issues and transformation with deep emotional impact. Brigadier General Shah described it as “well directed, beautifully paced, and filled with moving performances.”
Film critic Julia Kirkindale praised the film’s stunning cinematography in the foothills of the Annapurna range and its powerful portrayal of a society caught between tradition and aspiration. She described Gauthali as “compelling and educational.”
Kirkindale praised Simran Khadka in the role of Gauthali and Arun Chhetri as Thule. She highlighted the film’s themes of education, gender inequality, compassion, and resilience.
“Educated women become quiet leaders who achieve success for themselves while also lifting up those around them,” she said, adding that Rijal’s powerful screenplay carried echoes of Dickensian social commentary and an epic, melodramatic style that makes the film highly engaging.
She said education ultimately emerges as the real force that transforms and empowers Gauthali, praising the film’s strong social message and emotional appeal.
Consultant developmental pediatrician Dr. Yamuna Acharya said the film offered valuable insight into the challenges faced by parents, spouses, siblings, and society.
“As an autism specialist and a woman, I have no doubt that this film will provide valuable insight into the challenges and hardships faced by parents, spouses, siblings, and society at large,” she said. “It also shows how these challenges can be understood and addressed with compassion and resilience.”
Tia Acharya described Gauthali as a powerful story of struggle, courage, and determination. She said the film raises important social issues while encouraging audiences to think about possible solutions.
She praised the acting and direction for creating a strong and emotional story that leaves a deep impression on viewers. According to Acharya, audiences across generations have responded positively to the film, which also encourages people to recognize the value of the opportunities available to them.
She also praised the film’s performances, direction, and production, giving special credit to the casting director for selecting actors who do justice to their roles.
The exceptional response from the Nepali community and wider British audiences reflects growing interest in Nepali cinema and original storytelling.
Director Dr. Kapil Rijal thanked everyone who has watched the film, shared information about it, encouraged friends and family to see it, and supported Gauthali in any way.
