The team of the upcoming Nepali film ‘Kumari,’ set to release on Magh 23, organized a special interactive discussion program focused on youth perspectives. The event centered on the theme: “What does the younger generation expect from Nepali cinema, music, and media?”
Held at the Nepal Academy Hall (Pragya Pratisthan), Kamaladi, Kathmandu, the program saw participation from around 500 students and young attendees from various colleges.
Alongside the Kumari film team, the event featured Madan Puraskar-winning author Amar Neupane, journalist Naresh Bhattarai, director Dinesh Raut, writer Bikash Subedi, producer Mahendra Adhikari, and singer Kehar Singh Limbu with his band members.
During the discussion, 30 young participants shared their views on Nepali cinema, music, and media. Many expressed appreciation for platforms that allow youth voices to be heard openly.
Participants praised director Dinesh Raut’s previous films, describing cinema as a medium to understand life. One participant noted,
“We don’t go to movie halls just to pass time. Films must reflect our culture and originality.”
Youth participants also highlighted the powerful influence of social media, expressing concern over exaggerated reviews and misinformation. Some admitted they often turn to foreign films due to dissatisfaction with the current standard of Nepali cinema.
When it comes to music, expectations were clear:
“Songs need emotion more than glamorous looks. Music should connect with life, not just entertain.”
The film’s popular track ‘Doko Bunne’ was praised for preserving the authentic essence of Nepali music.
Debut actor Abhishek Khadka said he was previously more influenced by Western films but is encouraged by the recent growth of Nepali cinema. He claimed Kumari aligns well with the tastes of the new generation and urged audiences to watch it in theaters.
Journalist Naresh Bhattarai advised youth to critically evaluate media and social media content before believing it. Author Amar Neupane explained the connection between literature and cinema, stating,
“If literature written by pen becomes a book, cinema is literature written by a camera.”
Writer Bikash Subedi warned that growing frustration among youth could be harmful to the nation. He expressed confidence that Kumari would help reduce disappointment toward Nepali cinema. According to him,
“This is not just a typical love story. The film carries deeper layers beyond what the trailer shows.”
Directed by Dinesh Raut, Kumari marks the debut of lead actors Abhishek Khadka and Aakriti Rajbhandari. The cast also includes Ghanshyam Joshi, Sunita Shrestha, Aakanksha Karki, Madhu Khadka, Sanam Shrestha, Saku Shah, Saroj Lamichhane, and Mansha Sharma.
Produced under the Binish Entertainment banner, the film’s story and screenplay are written by Bikash Subedi. Cinematography is by Susan Prajapati, editing and color grading by Suprim Parajuli, and sound design by Uttam Neupane. Poster and publicity design is by Royal Bhimsen, with Kedar Bhusal serving as executive producer.
Songs from the film — ‘Doko Bunne,’ ‘Kata Chhau Mero Phool,’ and ‘Timi Bina’ — have already gained popularity. Notably, ‘Doko Bunne’ has crossed 7.2 million views. All songs in the film are sung by Kehar Singh Limbu.
Known for his success in romantic films, director Dinesh Raut returns to the love story genre with Kumari, and the production team is confident the film will resonate with audiences both in Nepal and abroad.
