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Kathmandu: In the film industry, success is often measured in two ways — box office revenue or critical acclaim. But sometimes, even when critics praise a film and audiences appreciate its story, the producer may still face financial loss. That is precisely what happened with the recently released film ‘Kumari.’
Producer Mahendra Adhikari, who earlier left a strong mark with Prakash, views the commercial setback of Kumari not as a failure to hide but as a lesson to analyze.
He considers cinema a business where profit is essential. “If a business fails to generate profit, one must identify the reasons and immediately seek solutions,” he says candidly. Yet he remains composed, arguing that in business, profitability is not guaranteed at all times — sometimes loss is a universal reality.
When a film underperforms, the impact goes beyond finances. From technicians to actors, many place their hopes on the producer. According to Adhikari, this creates both financial and psychological pressure. However, he prefers learning over lamenting. “Correcting weaknesses and moving forward with a new project is a positive step,” he states confidently.
At a time when the Nepali market increasingly believes films cannot run without star casts, Adhikari challenges that notion. For him, casting should depend on the demands of the story, not merely on stardom. “Sometimes you need established actors; sometimes fresh faces. It’s not my preference — it’s the story’s requirement,” he explains.
Often described as a bold producer, Adhikari sees his approach not as risk-taking but as honesty and responsibility toward his profession. “Filmmaking is not just investment; it is passion and social responsibility,” he says.
He believes Kumari was more than a love story — it carried the bitter truth of a woman’s sensitivity that society still struggles to accept. While it may not have achieved expected commercial success, Adhikari considers its thematic depth an achievement in itself.
Rather than discouraging him, Kumari has made him more reflective and responsible as a filmmaker, ready to return with greater maturity and purpose.
