Song from Nepali Film ‘Gunyo Cholo: The Dress’ Released, Nazir Hussain Portrays a Transwoman Lead

Kathmandu – The much-anticipated song “Ma Phool Hu Ki Kaanda” (Am I a Flower or a Thorn) from the Nepali movie ‘Gunyo Cholo: The Dress’ has been officially released. The song was launched today during a formal program held in Kathmandu.

Penned and composed by Lekhu Sahayatri, the song features vocals by Manisha Pokharel. With poetic lyrics, the song expresses the inner yearning for love and recognition, emphasizing that love must be proven, not just professed.

The music video stars Nazir Hussain, who impresses with his expressive dance moves and striking portrayal in a woman’s attire. His gestures and posture showcase his dedication to the role. Actor Sushil Sitaula also appears in the video.

During the event, the film’s release date was announced as Bhadra 13 (August 29, 2025). Directed by Samundra Bhatt, the film is based on the life of a gender minority/transwoman character, making it Nepal’s first full-fledged transgender narrative in cinema.

Nazir Hussain takes on the lead role as a transwoman, supported by a strong cast including Sanchita Luitel, Sushil Sitaula, Rajkumar Ghosh, Shishir Rana, Anupam Shrestha, and Bishal Pahari.

In a significant international breakthrough, the movie’s distribution rights have been acquired by Buffalo 8, a U.S.-based company. The film’s entire post-production—editing, coloring, sound mixing, background score—was carried out overseas in Hollywood-style studios.

Renowned Hollywood artist Lisa Gerrard has lent her voice for the soundtrack, while the background score has been composed by Marcelo de Francisci, known for his work in Gladiator 2.

‘Gunyo Cholo: The Dress’ is a collaborative production between a Nepali film house and a Hollywood production company. The film is funded by Akash Budhathoki and V-Bhansé Janubon, with Jeffrey J. Wain and Steve Johnston as executive producers, and Anupam Shrestha as associate producer.

The film, shot by Alok Shukla, also features lyrics by Lekhu Sahayatri and has been selected for screening at TASVEER South Asian Film Market in the U.S.

This project marks a pioneering step for Nepalese cinema, bringing transgender stories to the forefront with international backing and technical finesse.