From September 26-28, Kathmandu Valley experienced its highest rainfall in fifty-four years, leading to catastrophic floods and landslides. The death toll reached 219, with many missing. Destruction affected homes and infrastructure, prompting rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Organizations like HAMI NEPAL are mobilizing support and donations for affected communities.
Tiger Mountain Pokhara offers stunning views of the Annapurna range and serves as an ideal accommodation for trekkers and triathletes alike. The lodge encourages disconnection from technology, promoting deep conversations and appreciation for nature. Guests enjoy farm-to-table meals and breathtaking scenery, creating a unique and memorable experience in a historic setting.
ASC360 offers essential travel insurance for adventurers in Nepal, covering high-altitude treks like Everest Base Camp and Mera Peak. They provide cashless emergency evacuations, medical coverage for altitude sickness, and local partnerships for effective rescue operations. Their plans prioritize rapid claims, ensuring safety and confidence in rugged terrains.
Bhutan, known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and hospitality. A trip from Nepal offers stunning Himalayan views and a unique blend of tradition and modernity in cities like Thimphu and Punakha. Hiking to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery is a must, alongside experiencing Bhutan’s vibrant nightlife and delectable cuisine, making it a memorable destination.
The author's recent two-week trek to Mera Peak, guided by Thamserku, was both challenging and rewarding. Despite the relentless rain and tough climbs, the journey offered stunning views and warm hospitality from local tea houses. The summit at 6,474m was exhilarating yet exhausting, culminating in a helicopter ride back to Lukla for a celebratory day.
The Five Films for Freedom event in Kathmandu showcased LGBTQIA+ stories through selected short films, including Dragfox and ARKESTA. Curated by the host, the event featured discussions with speakers about storytelling and representation. The turnout of over a hundred attendees highlighted the need for greater visibility and creation of queer cinema in Nepal.
LOUD OUT 2025, the UK’s premier Nepali music festival, returns to Rushmoor Arena on August 30. From 1 PM to 10 PM, expect a vibrant celebration featuring top Nepali artists like Bipul Chettri and Sabin Rai. Enjoy street food, beer, and community atmosphere. Tickets are limited; secure yours now!
The audio streaming platform SPOTIFY only launched in Nepal in February 2021 but listeners have been busy! Spotify exclusively shared that "Nepal has listened...
The Sustainable Startup and Entrepreneurship Conference 2025, organized by MIT Group Foundation and UNDO, focused on diaspora investments in Nepal's sustainable economy. Key discussions highlighted the need for skill development and mentoring within Nepal. The Future Roots Award recognized innovative startups, underscoring the potential for further diaspora collaboration in fostering economic growth.
Over 60% of Nepal's terrain is hilly, increasing landslide risks. The Pratibaddha II initiative aims to strengthen disaster response by utilizing bio-engineering strategies for slope stabilization while fostering community collaboration. My visit to Lamche Dhunga highlighted successful local efforts, supportive technology, and ongoing projects addressing natural disaster preparedness and community resilience.
Dr. Chitra Mabo's MUKKUMLUNG recently concluded its nineteen-day performance at Shilpee Theatre, showcasing the Kirati people's traditions through a community-driven narrative. The play highlights the conflict between indigenous preservation and commercial development, urging a recognition of the cultural significance of sacred sites like Mukkumlung. Development must respect indigenous connections to the land.
From September 26-28, Kathmandu Valley experienced its highest rainfall in fifty-four years, leading to catastrophic floods and landslides. The death toll reached 219, with many missing. Destruction affected homes and infrastructure, prompting rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Organizations like HAMI NEPAL are mobilizing support and donations for affected communities.
From September 26-28, Kathmandu Valley experienced its highest rainfall in fifty-four years, leading to catastrophic floods and landslides. The death toll reached 219, with many missing. Destruction affected homes and infrastructure, prompting rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Organizations like HAMI NEPAL are mobilizing support and donations for affected communities.
Tiger Mountain Pokhara offers stunning views of the Annapurna range and serves as an ideal accommodation for trekkers and triathletes alike. The lodge encourages disconnection from technology, promoting deep conversations and appreciation for nature. Guests enjoy farm-to-table meals and breathtaking scenery, creating a unique and memorable experience in a historic setting.
ASC360 offers essential travel insurance for adventurers in Nepal, covering high-altitude treks like Everest Base Camp and Mera Peak. They provide cashless emergency evacuations, medical coverage for altitude sickness, and local partnerships for effective rescue operations. Their plans prioritize rapid claims, ensuring safety and confidence in rugged terrains.
Bhutan, known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and hospitality. A trip from Nepal offers stunning Himalayan views and a unique blend of tradition and modernity in cities like Thimphu and Punakha. Hiking to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery is a must, alongside experiencing Bhutan’s vibrant nightlife and delectable cuisine, making it a memorable destination.
The author's recent two-week trek to Mera Peak, guided by Thamserku, was both challenging and rewarding. Despite the relentless rain and tough climbs, the journey offered stunning views and warm hospitality from local tea houses. The summit at 6,474m was exhilarating yet exhausting, culminating in a helicopter ride back to Lukla for a celebratory day.
The trek to Tilicho Lake through Manang Village offers stunning landscapes, challenging terrains, and memorable experiences. Starting in Kathmandu, the journey includes scenic drives, acclimatization treks, and visits to Chingdi Lake and Green Lake. The completion of the trek is rewarding, culminating in a return to Kathmandu after a fulfilling adventure.
The Five Films for Freedom event in Kathmandu showcased LGBTQIA+ stories through selected short films, including Dragfox and ARKESTA. Curated by the host, the event featured discussions with speakers about storytelling and representation. The turnout of over a hundred attendees highlighted the need for greater visibility and creation of queer cinema in Nepal.
LOUD OUT 2025, the UK’s premier Nepali music festival, returns to Rushmoor Arena on August 30. From 1 PM to 10 PM, expect a vibrant celebration featuring top Nepali artists like Bipul Chettri and Sabin Rai. Enjoy street food, beer, and community atmosphere. Tickets are limited; secure yours now!
The audio streaming platform SPOTIFY only launched in Nepal in February 2021 but listeners have been busy! Spotify exclusively shared that "Nepal has listened...
The Sustainable Startup and Entrepreneurship Conference 2025, organized by MIT Group Foundation and UNDO, focused on diaspora investments in Nepal's sustainable economy. Key discussions highlighted the need for skill development and mentoring within Nepal. The Future Roots Award recognized innovative startups, underscoring the potential for further diaspora collaboration in fostering economic growth.
Over 60% of Nepal's terrain is hilly, increasing landslide risks. The Pratibaddha II initiative aims to strengthen disaster response by utilizing bio-engineering strategies for slope stabilization while fostering community collaboration. My visit to Lamche Dhunga highlighted successful local efforts, supportive technology, and ongoing projects addressing natural disaster preparedness and community resilience.
Dr. Chitra Mabo's MUKKUMLUNG recently concluded its nineteen-day performance at Shilpee Theatre, showcasing the Kirati people's traditions through a community-driven narrative. The play highlights the conflict between indigenous preservation and commercial development, urging a recognition of the cultural significance of sacred sites like Mukkumlung. Development must respect indigenous connections to the land.
From September 26-28, Kathmandu Valley experienced its highest rainfall in fifty-four years, leading to catastrophic floods and landslides. The death toll reached 219, with many missing. Destruction affected homes and infrastructure, prompting rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Organizations like HAMI NEPAL are mobilizing support and donations for affected communities.
The first ever open Eid Festival, NAMASTE EID took place on June 28th in Kathmandu marking the end of Ramadan. The festival which was free and open for all was organised to foster unity among the different religions in Nepal and also share the work, food and culture of Muslims. From Halal food to melodious music and performances, Namaste Eid was a celebration of the religion as well as a glimpse into the religion for non-Muslims. The event which took place at the Hotel Annapurna showcased a fashion show ‘The Hijab, Modestly Modern’ by Nuzhat Qazi, soulful Sufi Music from “Ankit Babu Adhikari and Band†and “Ankit Shrestha and Bandâ€. The event was hosted by Miss Nepal International 2012 Subeksha Khadka.
Whether it’s a new club or a new restaurant, loyalty seems to be missing when it comes to the social butterflies of Kathmandu. There were days when a certain Club would be the spot where every Tom, Dick and Harry would be seen and a Wednesday night would magically turn into a FriYAY night – until of course another new club appears with online promotions so effective that you find yourself once again, being swayed. For once, it’s not a club or a bar with an amazing interior. It’s the infinity pool at the new Hotel Mulberry in Thamel! The many who are glued to social media, particularly Instagram are probably very aware of the new spot in Kathmandu thanks to the visits by many beautiful ladies, models and larger than life personalities (on social media) whos photos etch on the borders of being ‘family friendly’.
Whilst I haven’t had the pleasure to visit the pool and the rooftop deck at the Hotel Mulberry, I can definitely say the view is quite something (judging by the photos purely). Seeing the stunning photos of the Mulberry pool, I am reminded of the Hotel Shambala Infinity Pool and can I just add that my memory of the barely large enough pool is rather unpleasant. But Hey, these infinity pools are perfect for the Instagram and on a hot day when you just want to dip in and sip your cocktail on the side! It’s another space to rock your hot bikini or tight-fitting summery swim shorts with plenty to show off. If you’re more of a swimmer then maybe it’s best to look elsewhere 😉
Though conversations around a proposed airport being constructed in the eastern city of Dharan has been going on for a while, a recent feasibility report of the proposed Dharan Airport is once again raising the hope of the residents of the bustling eastern city. Known for its wide-roads, fashionable young people and the British Gurkha population, Dharan has been viewed by many as a progressive city in the Eastern region of Nepal. The report by Realpath Engineering Consultancy forecasts the Dharan airport to have a 1250 meters long runway with the proposed location at Dadoghopa. The cost is estimated at Nrs 5.7 Billion. After receiving the proposal, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal has initiated talks with Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City to provide the necessary land! Well well well, at this rate the talks definitely seem to be moving forward. Land procurement is definitely quite an uphill task though! A whopping Nrs 2.2 Billion alone from the Nrs 5.7 Billion is earmarked for land compensation. The proposed airport is said to accommodate aircraft as big as ATR42.
Well the news of an airport in Dharan is definitely a positive news! I am not familiar with the location but I really hope that the airport is located on the edge or outskirts of the city. Having an airport located close to the core of the city only presents immediate and long-term challenges whether they be environmental or social. (Read the full article on Republica).
American pro’ boxer Keith Thurman Jr married his girlfriend Priyana Thapa in Kathmandu on 30th of June. According to USA Today, the current unified welterweight world champion met Priyana at a nightclub in Tokyo, Japan! Seems like the two hit it right off! The boxer surprised his 208,000+ followers on Instagram as he shared adorable photos of the couple and him in his traditional Nepalese groom attire.
Husband and Wife : Keith and PriyanaThe boxer shared the news via Instagram!
The boxer shared his romantic side to USA Today as he spoke about how he wooed her during back and forth trips from America to Japan. Whilst he never saw himself settling down and getting married so soon, the champion knew that Priyana was the one for him. Such a cute story (read it here).
During his time in Nepal, the boxer also made time to interact with a group of Nepali boxers in Kathmandu at the Total Physical Fitness.
The passing away of director Nilu Doma Sherpa has come as a huge shock to her family, friends and well wishers all over. As loved ones hold onto memories of and with Nilu, we are all once again reminded how unpredictable the course of life really is. The friends, family and strangers that we exchange smiles with today are never guaranteed to be here tomorrow. From family, friends to strangers, many spoke about the ability of Nilu to bring light into the room; her expression, confidence and sass could not be ignored. For the shy, anxious or those still confused with their sexual identity, Nilu Doma’s unapologetic stance towards LGBTI/Q issues was one that I believe had an impact on many. Through observation, I could see that she was her true-self and being herself came naturally to her. I admired that and her departure is a huge loss to the LGBTI/Q community in Nepal.
Nilu, will live in the memories of the lives that she touched. I hope you are in a space where you are happy, smiling and spreading the colours of pride. See you again one day…
Karishma Manandhar, Keki Adhikari, Barsha Siwakoti, Anoop Bikram Shahi, Aaryan Sigdel, Anand Karki, Salon Basnet to Aashishma Nakarmi, the well known names from Nepali cinema and music touched down in London on Thursday evening ahead of the National Box Office Film Fare Awards 2017. The film award organised by the Third Eye Team UK will take place on Saturday, July 1st at The Empire in Aldershot. The first ever Nepali film award in the UK sees a stiff competition between Chakka Panja, Bir Bikram, Gajalu and LOOT 2. The films have racked up many of the nominations including Best Film!
With VIP tickets for the event sold out, standard tickets are still available! Make sure you buy your tickets ASAP to avoid any disappointment. The award ceremony will be followed by an after-party at the same venue.
Photo: Photo: London Nepal NewsPhoto: Keki AdhikariPhoto: London Nepal News
Volleyball player turned actress Sipora Gurung will be seen alongside Ramesh Budhathoki in the film Bhuimanchhe. The trailer hints the film to revolve around Budhathoki’s medical profession with a dark twist! Bhuimanchhe is the third film for Sipora after Ghalek : The Sign of Love and Yamphawati The Princess. Gurung is still awaiting the release of Yamphawati The Princess. It looks like Bhuimanchhe may be released before Yamphawati The Princess as the medical drama is set to hit the big screens on Bhadra 2 (18th August).
If Bhuimanchhe is released before Yamphawati The Princess then it will definitely be a first for many people to see Sipora’s acting. Whilst Ghalek : The Sign of Love was received well, the film was largely only screened in Pokhara.
Well! I can’t wait to see what she delivers on screen. I’d like to see her in a refreshing romantic comedy! Or something that’s centred around the city, being a young professional and travelling – basically – a film based on her Instagram feed would be pretty cool! Like have you guys followed her? Posts worth writing #goals.
Six Nepali musicians will be performing across England from August for HK NIGHT by Suvas Gurung. The live gig will feature Mongolian Heart’s Raju Lama, former Nepathya member Gautam Gurung, Deepak Bajracharya, Angles Band’s Raju Lama, Haris Mathema and Sanjeep Pradhan. HK NIGHT is set to be a nostalgic evening down memory lane as the musicians sing their hits and classics such as Timilai Dekhera by Mongolian Heart Raju Lama. The event will be hosted by Miss UK Nepal 2012 Durga Gurung and will take place in Plumstead on Saturday 19th August followed by Swindon on 25th August and Aldershot on 2nd September.
The event will be organised by many members from HK Nepal Youth Organisation UK, who have experience of organising similar events in Hong Kong and the UK. The team are coming together once again to bring their HK Nepalis as well as UK Nepalis together for HK NIGHT in UK to celebrate music!
Advance tickets for the event is currently priced at £20. If you’re up for some classics and good live atmosphere then HK NIGHT it is.
Promoting Nepal as a destination for travellers is constantly on the minds of many. A group of Nepalis living in Spain have opted to follow the route of having a promotional poster of Nepal on local buses of Barcelona to promote Nepal as a travel destination. The group under the coordination of Deepak Kharel, an honorary representative of Nepal Tourism Board are enthusiastic about promoting Nepal. The fee to use the vehicles for the advertisement is reportedly Nrs 250,000. Well that is definitely a start! The Visit Nepal posters will go on the vehicles beginning the second week of July.
This is similar to when the Embassy of Nepal had Nepal posters on London’s iconic red buses. If only we could have posters of Nepal on London’s underground. Now that would be major! Good going Spain Nepalis.
The first look of Anmol KC’s KRI took social media by a huge surprise today! Anmol seems to have finally shaken off his school boy look in the poster which sees him ready to knock someone out, literally! We’re used to seeing him in romcoms such as Hostel, Jerryy and Gajalu where he has been heavily criticised for playing similar roles but it really looks like KRI is set to change it up for KC. In KRI, Anmol stars alongside the stunning Aditi Budhathoki, Anoop Bikram Shahi, Kameshwor Chaurasiya, Saroj Khanal, Rupa Rana, Laxmi Giri, Amit Giri and more.
Anmol KC’s action avatar definitely seems to have impressed many! He’s reportedly playing the character of a soldier in the Surendra Poudel film. Well, it looks like we can expect a lot of action scenes. Fans of KC may very well get to see his hot body in the film. Many are already speculating whether Anmol will reveal a six pac in the film. The action love story will release on Kartik 3 (October 20th).
I am impressed with this first look and how it has managed to create such a hype already! Anmol KC is truly a superstar. Can’t wait to see more! On this note, I’ll leave you with a behind the scenes photo of Anmol KC from KRI!
Shilpa Maskey and Kiddo have come together for a dance cover of the melodic Bhanai by the Sikkim based band Tribal Rain. The video by Ramuna Pun starts off with Shilpa alone in bed wearing a wistful look, soon joined by Kiddo as they lose themselves in the rhythm of the music and flow into soundless choreography. Maskey has featured in several music videos and was recently seen in the TV advert for ALWAYS sanitary pads. In the dance cover of Bhanai, Shilpa is joined by Kiddo (Dipson Ghale) who recently came second place at the Inter-Uni Nepalese Dance Competition representing University of East London Nepalese Society.
Shilpa Maskey will be performing at the National Box Office Film Fare Award 2017 on Saturday, July 1st in Aldershot.
Chakka Panja, Loot 2, Bir Bikram and Gajalu lead the nominations for the National Box Office Film Fare 2017 awards. The first ever Nepali film award to take place in the UK will see the attendance of many actors from Keki Adhikari, Salon Basnet, Pradeep Khadka, Barsha Siwakoti and a special performance by Anand Karki. With more actors and performances still to be confirmed and kept a top secret, the event managed by Third Eye Team in the UK is expecting the arrival of the team from Nepal on 29th June.
The Empire in Aldershot will be the venue for the celebration of Nepali cinema in the past year. With participation from Nepali artists in the UK, including attendance of Dhruba Dutta, a Nepali actor based in the UK, the National Box Office Film Fare 2017 award is set to be a grand evening on Saturday 1st of July!
Photo: HAB A Moment
VIP Ticket holders are in the chance of winning an exclusive £30 voucher from Nepal – Chapter 1 and Chautari Restaurant. Make sure you’ve got your tickets for the first ever Nepali film award in the UK! BUY TICKETS HERE!
You can quickly glimpse through a brief list of nominations below. To view the full list of nominations – click here!
Commuting across Kathmandu may have just gotten better. The very popular SAJHA BUS will be adding 12 deluxe buses with one semi-low floor bus for Kathmandu. The news comes after the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) Mayor Bidya Sundar Shakya announced NRS 50 Million (Nrs 5 Karod) support for Sajha Yatayat. Mayor Shakya handed over the cheque to Sajha Yatayat’s chairman Kanak Mani Dixit at an event in Kathmandu on Tuesday morning.
Photo: Kanak Mani Dixit
With gradual improvement and introduction of new traffic rules in the valley, it’s important that existing public transport is continuously improved for the millions of commuters in Kathmandu. Whilst support to Sajha is undoubtedly a welcome news, it is equally important to focus on the age-old buses that continue to ply the city roads.
Alas, we can hope that more Sajha Buses or similar providers if not better than Sajha roam the streets of Kathmandu and beyond.
With electricity being a big need for the country, Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has finally done wonders by generating biofuel from waste! The wait for the new green energy has certainly been long but the positive news of 14 kW generated from the city’s waste brings hope that the waste problem of the capital may finally be resolved. KMC’s Bidya Sundar Shakya hinted to this new move being the solution of managing waste in the city. Whilst I certainly believe that a proper waste management plan and an agreement with the landfill site ought to be highlighted (one that benefits both parties), this new move of turning the city’s waste into biofuel is certainly a good green option!
With the capital city consistently grabbing global headlines for its air pollution and degrading environment, this initial step must be applauded and encouraged so we can see more action ahead. This green fuel project is part of ‘Integrated Sustainable Solid Waste Management Project’ which has a total investment of Nrs 18.2 million from the European Union and KMC itself.
With the red carpet rolled out and the champagne poured to the brim, the premiere of BLACK SUMMER took place at the Reading Film Theatre on Saturday, June 24. The UK made Nepali film by LBS Production saw the Chief Guest His Excellency, Ambassador of Nepal to the UK Dr Durga Bahadur Subedi along with special guest NRNA UK Chairperson Mr Muchettra Gurung. Joining the two special guests were over several dozen VIP Guests and attendees with many friends and family. The premiere noticeably missed the presence of actress Reema Bishwokarma yet made up for it with the presence of Ambika Rai, Sapana Shrestha, Ritesh Chams, Deepak Gurung, Pratik Dutraj, Jyasang Limbu and many more.
The film which is just around 90 minutes follows a group of friends on their trip to Snowdonia in Wales. The fast-paced love thriller soon reveals a dark love triangle focusing on Reema Bishwokarma, Ritesh Chams and Ambika Rai. The actors, many for whom BLACK SUMMER is the first time that they are facing the camera have done a commendable job. There are moments when different actors shine and you are left wanting to see more of them. Director LB Subba has shown strength in condensing the story into roughly ninety minutes yet certain parts feel rushed.
The UK made Nepali film has been produced by Saraswati Gyawali, Pratima Dutraj and co-produced by Tia Gurung, Bijay Lingthep and Bijaya Bikram Lingden. Additional screenings of Black Summer will soon be announced.
Actor Jyasang Limbu receiving a certificate of appreciation from Dr Subedi
Black Summer’s Sapana Shrestha with friend NituDirector Subba Speaks To His Audience
Director LB Subba Enters The Venue
His Excellency, Ambassador of Nepal to UK Dr Durga Bahadur SubediAmbika With FriendsLeading duo Ambika Rai and Ritesh ChamsTwo Black Summer Actresses Ambika Rai and Sapana ShresthaLeading Lady Ambika Rai Enters The Building
Though the official after-party of JOON Festival took place at the Electric in Brixton, London’s newest Nepali night-venue CLUB KTM came to life as many JOON Festival attendees thronged to the club in Harrow. The club night organised by Young Crowed Crew saw a packed dance-floor that grooved to the beats of DJ PHAT.
Well enough of my writing. See the photos for yourself – and the video!
A freshly released theatrical trailer of SANRAKSHAN starring Nikhil Upreti and Saugat Malla puts the focus on Madhesh, identity and politics! The film by director Purnendu Jha revolves around the political revolution that has taken place along the southern plains of Nepal touching on power, police, politics, people and the press. The film also stars Malina Joshi, Aashishma Nakarmi and Pramod Agrahari in lead roles.
SANRAKSHAN trailer grabbed my attention! Saugat Malla looks at ease playing the role of a DSP from Terai and it seems like Nikhil Upreti plays the big cop from possibly Kathmandu who comes to, bring everyone together? I sense a bit of ‘unity in diversity’ going on there. Sanrakshan has been filmed in Birgunj. The film will hit cinemas on August 11!
JOON FESTIVAL saw the coming together of Bipul Chettri and The Travelling Band, Kutumba, The Edge Band and Albatross at the iconic SSE Wembley Arena on Saturday 17th June. The event by Parcha and BFEST, two Nepali event companies from the UK who have been able to build a big following base through various events managed to pull over several thousands in attendance. The photos and video has been captured by HAB A Moment.
It was indeed a memorable evening of fine Nepali live music from different parts of the country, catering to a wide range of ages. From the use of traditional instruments and tunes by Kutumba to modern beats and rhythm by The Edge Band and Albatross, the evening had something for everyone. I am sure many returned home becoming a bigger fan of the different artists. The event was hosted by Saran Gurung from BFEST and Samir Gurung from Parcha.
The film that broke box office records CHAKKA PANJA will be back later this year! Deepak and Deepa’s CHAKKA PANJA 2 teaser is here and let’s just say that things do not seem to have changed a single bit! Looks like Deepak is still stuck to his old womaniser ways! I love how they’ve playfully used the song Saili by Hemant Rana. When the song burst into popularity, many memes and opinions drew parallels to the film CHAKKA PANJA and it’s very amusing to see the makers of CHAKKA PANJA 2 riding that meme wave and basing this entire teaser on it.
Clever! Effective and entertaining!
The film hits cinemas across Nepal on September 27th!
The first ever Nepali film award, the National Box Office Film Fare Award 2017 is only a week away from taking place in the UK. The award ceremony will be attended by Keki Adhikari, Bhuwan KC, Karishma Manandhar, Barsha Siwakoti, Pradeep Khadka, Salon Basnet and many more. With performances still a secret and nominations slowly being announced, I caught up with Ojesh Singh from The Third Eye Team, the UK organisers to talk about what to expect from the big night on the 1st of July!
LEX: We’re so close to the National Box Office Film Fare Award, the first ever Nepali Film Award event in the UK, can you tell readers what your role is in The Third Eye Team?
OJESH: With the The Third Eye Team, I am the System Expert so what I do is, I create the system, writing proposals, taking up roles of communication and coordinating the media people in the UK. So talking to figures such as yourself and Rushi Shrestha.Â
LEX: An event of that scale must definitely require a lot of collaborations and bridges between different groups, how is the preparation going so far?
OJESH: It’s going very well! We have received ticket bookings already and people from Nepal are confirmed to come. There are still a few negotiations happening as we speak. We’re trying our best to fulfil the different expectations and we definitely want the big stars to be here. It looks like it will come along nicely.
LEX: Organising such an event where you are liasing with people in the UK and Nepal is bound to come with challenges, what are some of the challenges you have faced till date?
OJESH: Getting confirmation from people and solving misunderstanding as well as managing peoples expectations. Managing people’s expectation has been the biggest challenge for us now as there are so many different artists and different interests towards different actors from people.Â
LEX: In terms of managing expectations, what can the audience expect from the event itself on the 1st of July?
OJESH: 100% hardwork that we have put in will be shown and seen in the event itself. The most amazing selection of artists will be there at the event, their performances and also the elite actors who have made huge contribution towards Nepali cinema will all be present and it will be an opportunity to see them in reality and we will also try our best to gather as many young people and Nepali film enthusiasts as possible.
LEX: In terms of performances, do you know of any confirmed performances that we can expect to be enthralled by in the evening?
OJESH: We will be discussing the event performances soon as there are a number of performances we are keeping confidential for now. We are working towards having Nepali artists from Nepal perform at the award ceremony as well as creative individuals from the UK. There are many names, confirmed and maybes. There will definitely be a few surprises in store!
LEX: You mentioned that this is an opportunity for people to see their favourite Nepali stars, is there anyone in particular that you are looking forward to seeing?
OJESH: For myself, being able to see Bhuwan KC will be great. I have seen his many films over a number of years and it will be great to see someone who is such an icon to Nepali cinema.
LEX: Definitely! His films are definitely a classic. In terms of the organising team from the UK, can you tell us about the fellow organisers and what experience they bring with them for this event?
OJESH: Bikash Devkota is our main coordinator and he has also been involved in doing similar events in the past, namely, Picnic in London where over a dozen musicians performed in one venue. He has the ability to coordinate many artists and manage events. Another member we have is Jeevan Sen who is already very active in community events and organisations. He boasts a number of contacts and I myself, have experience of managing and conducting various events in the community over the past decade. A new enthusiastic member we have is Karan Tamang who is from Hong Kong. His forte is organising events in HK and this will be his first in the UK and I believe he’ll bring his skills and abilities in full force on the day.
LEX: It looks like you are surrounded with team members who have years of experience in doing events for very different types of people. How important do you think it is that we bring more attention to events that promote Nepali cinema, especially at a time when young Nepalese are moving further away from Nepali films?
OJESH: It’s very important for us to know our roots. If you think about it, there are many actors from India doing very well outside of India too. While this may be a first for the UK, events such as this can bridge links to production houses and casting agencies in the UK in the future and this could in turn provide international opportunities for Nepal based actors or for UK based Nepali actors to get in touch and network with Nepal based production houses. Looking at how far Nepali cinema has come in the past decade is fantastic. From direction to tackling different stories, new genres to actors, things are constantly improving and it’s definitely inspiring for young Nepalese to observe this journey and maybe they can identify any gaps and if they feel they are capable then they can play a role in the betterment of Nepali cinema.
LEX: About the stars and industry related professionals attending the National Box Office Film Fare Award in Aldershot, when will they arrive in the UK?
OJESH: We have divided the number of people coming to the UK so they will be looked after by different team members from The Third Eye Team, so they will be located in different areas. Apart from the award ceremony, they will be given a brief tour of London. The team will arrive on 29th June and we will have a rehearsal on 30th June. 1st of July will be our main event and after that we will have some time for them to sight see and then they will be departing on the 3rd of July.
LEX: Apart from the visit to London and the award itself, will the celebrities be part of any other events during their brief stay in the UK?Â
OJESH: We will have a press conference on June 30th at The Empire, the venue of the award ceremony. We will also have a rehearsal run-through on the same day. Other than that, the team will possibly be visiting the Embassy of Nepal on June 2nd but that is pretty much it.
LEX: Before I leave you, is there anything you would like to add?
OJESH: Most importantly, I would like to say that this is the first time we are doing a Nepali film award in the UK. With the amount of people we have here, number of organisations and event companies, to not have a Nepali film award till date is surprising. We have never had an opportunity to do this and this is the first time so I hope many Nepali film enthusiasts to those who have been involved in film screenings come together to make this first event a very memorable and significant one.
