Kathmandu: Director Ashok Thapa Magar, who delivered the commercially successful Nepali film Khusma, has unveiled two official posters of his upcoming feature Jalaki, while announcing its nationwide theatrical release on Mangsir 4. Released on the occasion of Asar 15, the posters have generated early excitement among moviegoers.
The two posters present lead actors Sonam Topden and Upasana Singh Thakuri in contrasting emotional settings. While one highlights love, intimacy and trust, the other captures silence, emotional pain and the complexities of a relationship. Together, they suggest that Jalaki is more than a conventional romance, promising a story rich in emotion, relationships and human experiences.
In the first poster, Sonam and Upasana are seen embracing each other in a tender romantic moment, reflecting warmth, affection and mutual trust. The second poster takes a different tone, with Upasana resting her head on Sonam’s shoulder as he gazes into the distance with a serious expression, hinting at emotional conflict, separation and the challenges within love.
According to the production team, the posters not only showcase the film’s visual appeal but also offer a glimpse into its emotional depth. The promotional materials have already received positive responses across social media platforms.
The title Jalaki refers to a traditional stone pillar that symbolizes faith, remembrance, love and identity in the Magar community. Director Ashok Thapa Magar said the film draws inspiration from this cultural symbol to portray the traditions, lifestyle and emotions of the Magar and Gurung communities through a heartfelt love story, making it both a cultural and emotional narrative.
Produced under the banner of M Media Production, the film stars Sonam Topden, Upasana Singh Thakuri, Shilpa Maskey, Mao Tse Gurung, Buddhi Tamang, Astitwa Bhattachan, Sahara Hangma Limbu, Rajani Gurung, Raju Regmi Magar, Usha Khadka, Khadka Bahadur Pun (Khabapu), Lunibha Tuladhar, Sangeeta Thapa, Karma Lama Tamang, Bhawana Magar, Raj Kaucha Magar, and Duisang Thin. Captain Vijay Lama appears in a special role, while Munjan Thapa Magar, Nulamma Bantawa, and Rinsi Dhanaha Magar feature as child actors. The film also marks the Nepali film debut of Miss Sikkim Sahara Hangma Limbu.
The film is produced by Om Gharti Magar, Bir Bahadur Lama, Chandra Bahadur Bhattachan, Betane Magar (Babita Rana), Man Bahadur Dhanaha Magar, and Susmita Budhathoki. Cinematography is by Shailendra D. Karki, with music composed by SD Yogi and Sarita Rai. Lyrics are penned by Surendra Rana and Ram Aviral Bista, while vocals feature SD Yogi, Anju Panta, Melina Rai, Reshmi Pun Magar, and Geetanjali Thapa Magar.
Ashok Thapa Magar’s previous film Khusma emerged as a commercial success, and its hit song Rukum Maikot became hugely popular across TikTok, Facebook Reels and YouTube. Building on that momentum, the director says he is confident Jalaki will also resonate with audiences.
Distributed by Kafiya Films and Kuber Cine Distribution, Jalaki is set for a nationwide release on Mangsir 4. The production team plans to intensify promotions in the coming weeks with the release of the film’s songs, teaser and official trailer.
