Kathmandu film festival opens with short films, Cannes-honored movie awarded

Kathmandu Metropolitan City has inaugurated the ‘Tole Tole Ma Film Mahotsav,’ a month-long film festival designed to bring cinema closer to the people. The event, which began on June 19 at Khulla Manch with screenings of short films, will continue every Friday and Saturday until July 10 in various open spaces across the city.

This initiative by the Metropolitan City aims to foster growth in the Nepali film industry by providing greater exposure to filmmakers and their narratives. Kumari Rai, Head of the Culture and Tourism Department at Kathmandu Metropolitan City, highlighted the need to connect the public with the burgeoning Nepali film scene, stating, “Organising such an event in open spaces, supported by the Metropolitan City, can give considerable exposure to the filmmakers, their stories, as well as the audience.”

In addition to showcasing short films, the festival evolves with the objective of connecting the creative industry and the community. It includes dialogues on film, art, and creative industries, alongside cultural and creative programs and activities. Traditional food dishes will also be served, adding a local flavor to the cinematic experience. The festival's technical aspects are managed by the Metropolitan City, with local organizations selected through an open call to manage the events in different locations, including Balaju Bypass, Bagbazar, Bhaskarakirti Mahavihar, Lagantol, Maitidevi Temple open square, and Sundhara.

As part of the inauguration, the Kathmandu Metropolitan City honored the Nepali feature film ‘Elephants in the Fog,’ directed by Avinash Bikram Shah. The film received a cash prize of 1 million Nepalese rupees for its recognition at the 79th Cannes Film Festival, where it won awards in the Un Certain Regard category. The festival's short films were curated in collaboration with organizations such as the Film Development Board, British Council Nepal, UNESCO, and the Nepal Film Academy.

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There has been commendable growth in the Nepali film industry, yet many people are unaware of it and remain far from the cinema halls. Organising such an event in open spaces, supported by the Metropolitan City, can give considerable exposure to the filmmakers, their stories, as well as the audience.