Nepal’s first animation film festival ‘AVAAN Animation Film Festival–AAFF 2026’ announced

KATHMANDU — The Animation and VFX Artists Association Nepal (AVAAN) has announced the country’s first animation film festival, ‘AVAAN Animation Film Festival–AAFF 2026’.

The official announcement was made during a program held at the auditorium of the Film Development Board in collaboration with the board. Scheduled for October, the festival will be themed ‘My Nepal, Reimagined’.

Film Development Board Chairman Dinesh DC attended as the chief guest and unveiled the festival’s official mascot, ‘Affe’.

Inspired by Nepal’s national bird, the Danphe, the mascot is designed to represent the creativity, imagination, and vibrancy of Nepali artists, according to organizers.

The festival will feature animated short film screenings, concept art challenges, and various animation competitions. Submissions of 2–10 minute animation and VFX-based short films are open to creators from Nepal and around the world.

AVAAN also announced the launch of an online platform called ‘Careerboard’, aimed at connecting animation and VFX professionals with job opportunities and studios.

Additionally, the association revealed plans to introduce a formal undergraduate program in animation studies in Nepal, currently in early discussions with a reputed university.

The organization further plans to conduct regular training sessions, workshops, and collaborative learning programs with international experts to enhance skills in the animation and VFX sector.

A video presentation featuring 12 Nepali animators and VFX artists working on international projects highlighted Nepal’s growing presence in the global industry.

The event was attended by Nepal’s first animator and AVAAN advisor Karun Thapa, senior 2D animator and advisor Kirti Keshar Joshi, legal advisor Sahadev Khatri, Subash Gajurel from the Nepal Film Directors Society, Omkar Jaiswal from Robotics Association Nepal, and Susila Karki from the Copyright Registrar’s Office, along with over 100 artists, students, and film professionals.