Participation of Filmmakers from Various Countries in the Nepal Cultural International Film Festival

Kathmandu. The '7th Nepal Cultural International Film Festival,' organized by the Nepal Culture and Film Center, has commenced. The opening ceremony, held on January 30 at the Film Development Board in Chabahil, saw significant participation from national and international jury members, international delegates from various countries, and filmmakers.

The ceremony featured Dinesh D.C., Chairman of the Film Development Board Nepal, as the chief guest. Representing the national jury were actress and director Deepashree Niraula, film writer and director Ramesh Budhathoki, and producer and cinematographer Rabin Acharya. The international jury included British producer Adriana July Kulig and Argentine director and physician Dr. Jorge Guillermo Caravotta.

Eight international representatives from various countries, including France, India, Bangladesh, Lithuania, Germany, USA, Australia, and Israel, attended the opening ceremony. They were warmly welcomed with Dhaka caps and Khadas, reflecting Nepali culture. The ceremony featured cultural dance and art performances, along with special screenings of selected films, making the opening event grand and memorable.

The festival, which runs until February 1, is being held at the Film Development Board in Chabahil, the Nepal Tourism Board in Bhrikutimandap, and the Nepal Police Club. Eighty-five films from 39 countries are being screened during the festival. The lineup includes short films, feature films, documentaries, and animated films, along with films based on themes related to women, children, human rights, and culture.

"Films ranging from three minutes to two and a half hours have been selected for the festival," stated Santosh Subedi, the director and chairperson of the festival. The closing ceremony will be held at the Nepal Police Club, where awards and special honors will be presented to the best films and creators in various categories, including best film, director, actor, actress, and cinematographer.