‘Jadau’ Film Announced: A Cinematic Take on Caste-Based Discrimination and Inter-Caste Love

Kathmandu - A new Nepali film titled ‘Jadau’ has been officially announced, aiming to address the deep-rooted issue of caste-based discrimination in Nepali society through the story of an inter-caste couple. The announcement was made during a formal event held in the capital on Thursday.

Actors Mukun Bhusal, Niti Shah, Prabhatpal Thakuri, Binod Nyaupane, and debutant Sandhya Shrestha emotionally recited lyrics from a song written by Preeti Kaur during the event. The lyrics, reflecting the harsh realities faced by inter-caste couples, left the audience stunned. Following the recital, Film Development Board Chairperson Dinesh DC unveiled the film’s title while reciting the famous poem by poet Laxmi Prasad Devkota: “A person is great by heart, not by caste.”

The film will be co-directed by Kaji Limbu and Anjan Sharma, with shooting set to begin in the first week of Bhadra. ‘Jadau’ is a joint production of Silver Screen Entertainment and Samishran Movies and Entertainment.

Speaking at the event, Bimala Bhandari, managing director of Silver Screen Entertainment, said that the story draws inspiration from various real-life incidents of caste discrimination still prevalent in Nepal. She added that the film seeks to raise awareness and spark conversations to eliminate such social injustices.

Director Anjan Sharma stated that the film will present social realities and daily life in an entertaining manner. Co-director and writer Kaji Limbu added that ‘Jadau’ is based on real incidents he has personally experienced, expressing confidence that the film will touch the hearts of all Nepalis.

Actors Mukun Bhusal and Binod Nyaupane shared that they will be portraying characters quite different from any of their previous roles, calling it both a challenge and an opportunity. Actress Niti Shah said she was drawn to the strong script and team, and revealed that she will be playing a modern character and is preparing extensively for the role. Actor Prabhatpal Thakuri expressed gratitude for being trusted with a deep role and believes the film will be a milestone in his career. Newcomer Sandhya Shrestha said she was thrilled to share the screen with senior artists in her debut project.

The cast also includes Richa Sharma, Anil Subba, and CP Pudasaini (Dhature). The co-producers of the film are Ramraja Subedi, Om Chemjong, Sumitra Devkota, Narayan Shastri, Gokul KC, Arjun Khadka, Kaji KC, Srijana Sharma, and Manish Sharma. The film will be shot in various locations of Dang and Pyuthan.

Cinematography will be done by Shyam Tamang, with Chiranjeevi Bhandari as art director, Milan Shrestha as action director, and Binayraj Poudel as chief assistant director. The songs are composed by Babul Giri and Saroj Pokharel.

The event saw strong participation from media representatives. As part of the “Lucky Seven Gift” concept, seven journalists were chosen through a lottery and awarded useful daily essentials. Director Kaji Limbu said this initiative was to make ‘Jadau’ memorable for all. The event was hosted by veteran journalist and filmmaker Laxman Subedi.