Filming of ‘Maya Bhanekai Yasto Hola’ Begins Under Rekha Thapa’s Direction

Kathmandu: The filming of the movie ‘Maya Bhanekai Yasto Hola,’ directed by actress Rekha Thapa, has formally commenced.

Following the project's announcement on February 15th on the occasion of Mahashivratri, shooting started on Monday at the Royal Tulip National Park in Shivapuri, Kathmandu.

Rekha Thapa, who has previously directed successful films like ‘Himmatwali’ and ‘Malika,’ is returning to the director's chair after nearly eight years. In this film, Rekha will take on a different role; instead of appearing in front of the camera, she will focus entirely on direction.

This time, Rekha is working outside her own ‘Rekha Films’ banner, collaborating with ‘Diya and Amu Films.’

The movie features a large ensemble of veteran artists and popular contemporary faces from the Nepali art sector. Senior artist Madan Krishna Shrestha and actor Dil Shrestha, who is returning to cinema after a long hiatus, play lead roles.

Another major attraction of this film is the presence of three former Miss Nepals. Shristi Shrestha, Namrata Shrestha, and former Miss Nepal International Niti Shah are performing lead roles in the project.

Previously, the production team released two posters during the formal announcement of the film. These posters showcased the emotional and romantic avatars of the actors.

One poster featured Dil Shrestha alongside the three actresses—Shristi Shrestha, Namrata Shrestha, and Niti Shah—all dressed in red attire (Lehenga and Saree). While closeness is reflected between Dil and Namrata, the expressions of Shristi and Niti appear more serious.

In the other poster, actor Dil is shown in an emotional pose with an elderly man (artist Madan Krishna Shrestha). The image of Dil holding the hand of Madan Krishna, who is seated in a wheelchair, presents a story of a child's duty and support in old age.

Produced under the banner of ‘Diya and Amu Films,’ the movie also stars Laxmi Giri, Bishal Pahadi, Rabi Dangol ‘Beman,’ Sangam Bhandari, Sujata Shrestha, and Binod Paudel.

Produced by Hari Narayan Shrestha and Maya Devi Shrestha, the film is said to explore social sentiments and environments through a sweet love story.

Written by Dhurba Lamsal, the film attempts to find the true definition of love. Writer Lamsal is also returning to cinema writing after about a decade.

According to Production Head CM Bhardwaj (Subedi), although the filming schedule was set to begin in the second week of February, it was delayed by a few days due to elections and recent circumstances. He informed that the shooting, which will take place in various locations around Kathmandu, will last for about a month.

Sudip Baral is the Director of Photography (DOP) for the film, while Aniruddha Atreya serves as the chief assistant director. Rajan Ghimire has taken the responsibility of film coordinator, with music by Prashant Siwakoti, dress design by Sujeni Malla, and makeup by Priya Karki.