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Kathmandu: The upcoming Nepali film “Gaunthali,” set for release on Shrawan 1, has emerged as one of the most talked-about films ahead of its premiere, thanks to its unconventional promotional campaign and its sensitive portrayal of autism.
The film’s marketing strategy has stood out by keeping lead actors Arun Chhetri and Simran Khadka in character during public appearances. They first attended the film’s song launch dressed as bride and groom—the same roles they portray in the film—and later appeared in a television interview without breaking character.
During the interview, Simran narrated her character’s story of marrying a man with autism at the age of 15, while Arun remained fully immersed in his role, responding as his autistic character throughout the conversation. Many viewers initially believed they were watching real individuals rather than actors, making the campaign widely discussed on social media.
According to the production team, the creative promotional concept was developed under the guidance of director Dr. Kapil Rijal and filmmaker Prakash Subedi, helping the film reach a broader audience.
Following his directorial debut “Harry Ki Pyari,” Dr. Rijal has taken on the socially relevant subject of autism in his second feature. The film’s storyline and presentation have generated positive early responses from audiences.
A dentist by profession, Dr. Rijal previously worked in the United Kingdom before transitioning into filmmaking. He is the son of renowned physician, lyricist and filmmaker Dr. Bhola Rijal, whose passion for cinema inspired him to pursue directing.
The film stars Arun Chhetri, Simran Khadka, Madan Krishna Shrestha, Prakash Ghimire, Lunibha Tuladhar, Rabindra Jha, Ishwori Baral, Sanjog Rasaili, Sita Devi Timilsina, Laxminath Timilsina and Rajendra Nepali, with child actors Anshu Oli and Prince Nepali also appearing in key roles.
Based on a story by Dr. Bhola Rijal, the screenplay and dialogues have been jointly written by Dr. Kapil Rijal, Nishchal Kunwar, Niraj Nepal and Giriraj Ghimire.
Produced under the banners of Bhola Rijal Production and Suman Giri Production, the film’s executive producer is Sarala Rijal, while Suman Giri and Dr. Kapil Rijal serve as producers. Indu Giri, Manish Rijal, Pralaya Rijal and Jeevan Oli are co-producers.
The soundtrack features music by Shambhujit Baskota, Thaneshwor Gautam and Prashant Siwakoti, with the background score composed by Alice Karki. Cinematography is by Hari Humagain, editing by Milan Shrestha, sound design by Mukesh Shah, color grading by Rajendra Moktan, and choreography by Ramji Lamichhane and Mausam Himali.
The film will be distributed by Rich Entertainment, Apple Entertainment and F.D. Company, while OSR Digital holds its digital distribution rights.
Notably, Dr. Bhola Rijal produced a musical film with the same title more than two decades ago, regarded as Nepal’s first musical feature. The original “Gaunthali” celebrated a successful 51-day theatrical run. The new film reimagines the title with a contemporary story and is scheduled for nationwide release on Shrawan 1.
