KIMFF screens films in Ilam

By Prem Adhikari

Pashupatinagar (Ilam), Jan. 16: While mainstream films dominate viewership, awareness-focused films are being screened in Ilam.

The Kathmandu International Mountain Film Festival (KIMFF) Foundation has begun showcasing educative films and documentaries aimed at generating awareness.

In Suryodaya Municipality, Ilam, the foundation screened Pasang: In the Shadow of Everest, a film about Pasang Lhamu Sherpa, the first Nepali woman to summit Mount Everest.

Shekhar Kharel of the foundation stated that the films offer a unique perspective compared to mainstream cinema. “We are here to present artistic and educational films to provide a learning experience for viewers,” he said.

The screenings were attended by local journalists, educators and students.

Alongside Pasang: In the Shadow of Everest, the foundation plans to screen five films, including Moti Dubli Kali Gori, according to Kharel.

In Phikkal of Suryodya, the programme was coordinated by journalist Kedar Sharma while another screening is scheduled in Ilam Bazaar on Thursday. The Federation of Nepali Journalists, Ilam, is organising the show in Ilam Bazaar.

After watching Pasang: In the Shadow of Everest, Matrika Dahal, a teacher at Phikkal Secondary School, said the film is highly inspirational for children aspiring to achieve their dreams.

Kharel added that videos could be an alternative resource for the current curriculum.

The screenings will take place in Phikkal and Ilam, extending to Surunga, Damak, Itahari, and Dharan in Jahpa and Sunsari districts.

The foundation hosts its main film festival annually in Kathmandu.