22nd Anniversary of Film Journalists Association Kaski Concludes with Focus on Journalism, Leadership, and the Future

Pokhara.
The 22nd anniversary of the Film Journalists Association Nepal, Kaski branch, was celebrated today with a tea reception and exchange of best wishes, featuring a variety of opinions, suggestions, and inspiring remarks.

Founder President of the Association, Shriram Sigdel, stated that he has taken responsibility to resolve the issues seen within the executive committee. He informed that the sixth general convention would be held once the central committee issues a directive for it. He recalled that the association was established on Ashar 22, 2060 B.S., and highlighted how it has overcome numerous challenges to reach its current state.

Advisor Suresh Ranabhat described the association’s statutes and operational procedures as the "oxygen" essential to strengthen the organization. He remarked that the Kaski branch is among the best in the country and emphasized that the institution has become stronger.

Ramesh Paudel, President of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, Gandaki Province, stressed the need to increase film-related activities to protect film journalism, stating that the media is the primary platform for bringing artists into the limelight.

Similarly, President of the FNJ Kaski chapter, Madhav Baral, mentioned that the association is entering a more mature phase and emphasized the need to maintain its momentum. Acknowledging the effects of leadership vacuum as natural, he suggested moving forward with appropriate solutions.

Actor Prakash Ghimire said journalists should openly praise good films and abandon the mindset of considering only commercially successful films as good. Sharing his experience, he expressed concern that sometimes even with outstanding performances, films can still fail. He also praised the association’s initiatives such as the "Cinema Dialogue" program.

Actor and director Mao Tse Gurung highlighted the need for the media to play an active role in refining film journalism and correcting errors in the Film Act.

Former Vice-President and Advisor Rajaram Paudel emphasized that leadership should complete its tenure and that the "Cinema Dialogue" program should be made more refined and effective. He urged that journalists should not be limited to covering films only, but should be encouraged to write about all dimensions of the entertainment industry.

Former Joint Secretary and journalist Bijaya Nepal suggested that fellowships, training sessions, and workshops should be conducted for film journalists.

General Secretary Santosh Basyal provided updates on the current state of the organization.

The program, chaired by founding president Shriram Sigdel, included active participation and discussions on the association’s role, future, and various aspects of strengthening the organization.

The Film Journalists Association was established on Jestha 7, 2056 B.S., under the leadership of Bharat Shakya at the central level. The Kaski branch was expanded for the first time in the film city of Pokhara on Ashar 22, 2060 B.S.