We need to develop film tourism: President

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, July 15: President Ramchandra Paudel has stressed the need to develop Nepal as an attractive destination for film tourism. 

Addressing the National and Special Film Awards and Felicitation Ceremony held at Sheetal Niwas on Monday, he said that Nepal’s unique geographical diversity, ranging from the Himalayas to the hills and the Tarai makes the country itself a natural film studio. 

He expressed his belief that this diversity, if exploited properly, could contribute positively not only to the film industry but also to employment, tourism, and the national economy.

President Paudel said that films can powerfully express themes such as national folk art, stories, songs, music, language, literature, culture, cultural identity, nationalism, originality, and the identities of various ethnic groups and linguistic communities.

 He added, “In recent times, the growing focus on the art, language, attire, traditions, and cultures of indigenous nationalities has strengthened inclusivity, identity, and diversity in the film industry.”

He highlighted the need to create artistic, meaningful, and contextually relevant Nepali films that reflect originality, and to reach global audience in this era of globalisation and information technology.

 He stressed the need to focus on quality and promote the internationalisation of Nepali cinema for better market reach.

 “Development, expansion, and prosperity of Nepali cinema is our common responsibility, and all stakeholders including the government, policymakers, and filmmakers must move forward hand in hand, the President added. 

Highlighting the significance of cinema in modern times to influence and inspire people, he said, “Cinema has always had value and uniqueness as an artistic medium to express various aspects of human life and the world.”

The President emphasised the importance of originality, creativity, and healthy entertainment in films that also deliver information, education, and inspiration. He expressed his happiness that the market for Nepali cinema, once limited, has now expanded.

On the occasion, President Paudel honoured writer and director Laxmi Nath Sharma with the Life Time Achievement Award, and conferred Special Contribution Awards to 11 individuals and National Film Awards to another 11 individuals.

 On the occasion Minister for Communication and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung was also present. 

 Likewise, Film Shambala directed by Min Bahadur Bham was honoured with the Best Film Award 2082. 

Bijay Baral won the Best Actor Award for ‘Purna Bahadur Ko Sarangi’ while Upasana Singh Thakuri won the Best Actress for the film Khusma. 

Likewise, Deepak Raj Giri won the award for screenplay for ‘Chhakkapanja’ 5, while Purushottam Pradhan won the award for cinematography for the film ‘Pitamber’.