Election shadows fall on Nepali films

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Feb. 19: Three Nepali films have been withdrawn from local movie theatres.

The films Shivansh: Chapter 1, Bigul, and Shree Bukuro, which were released on February 13, 

targeting Mahashivaratri festival, have been withdraw from theatres.

The production company of Shivansh: Chapter 1, Anjan Cine Production House, issued a statement announcing that the film’s screening has been halted from Wednesday onwards. 

According to the statement, the decision was taken after the film failed to secure suitable show timings. Screenings will remain suspended until further notice, read the statement.

Shivansh: Chapter 1 depicts the story of individuals involved in criminal activities under the guise of religion. The narrative draws inspiration from Hindu mythology, particularly the episode of Samudra Manthan (the churning of the ocean).

The film features Prabin Khatiwada, Tej Giri, Bimala Limbu, and Rusha Neupane in the major roles, with supporting performances by Bikash Joshi, Pradeep Kumar Chaudhary, Sabir Churaute, Uday Kumar Subba, and Tika Niraula, among others. It is directed by Santosh Kumar Atreya, with the story written by Anjan KC and the screenplay by Barat Limboo.

Likewise, Bigul and Shree Bukuro have decided to stop their shows, stating that they will announce new release dates only after the elections.

In a press statement, the production company of Bigul, Mognolia Group, announced that its screenings will remain halted until further notice. 

Meanwhile, the distribution company of Shree Bukuro has confirmed that its screenings is suspended from Wednesday. The distributor, National Cine Group Nepal, informed that the film will be released on May1.

Both Bigul and Shree Bukuro have been withdrawn due to the March 5 election.

Bigul, directed by Ramesh Koirala, stars Benisha Hamal and Naren Khadka in lead roles. 

Based on a contemporary political theme, the film is described as a political drama. 

Shree Bukuro, written and directed by Sudip Bhupal Singh, features Laxmi Giri, Ashirbad Chhetri, and Nikita Acharya in prominent roles. It revolves around a family-oriented storyline.

However, other Nepali films Aa Bata Aama, released on January 30, Rammita Koo Pirati, released on February 6, and Kumari, also released on February 6 are still being screened in cinema theatres.