The First Janakpur International Film Festival is set to take place with the aim of internationalizing the Nepali film industry, promoting its market, and exploring new opportunities. The festival was announced during an event organized by Samvad Foundation in Lalitpur on Tuesday, attended by filmmakers and media professionals. The event confirmed that the festival will be held from March 1 to March 3, 2025
A Platform to Promote Nepali and Mithila Cinema Globally
Chairman of the Film Development Board, Dinesh DC, expressed confidence that the festival would serve as a key platform for marketing Nepali and Mithila cinema worldwide. “Janakpur represents the Mithilanchal region, and this festival will highlight its significance. More than 137 countries will learn about our cinema,” he stated.
He further emphasized that organizing a festival solely for financial gain is not appropriate. Instead, he pledged support for such international film festivals, even if it means reallocating budgets from other sectors.
Call for Change in Nepali Filmmaking
Executive Chairman of the National News Agency (RSS), Dharmendra Jha, stressed the need for transformation in Nepali cinema production. “Nepali films seem somewhat one-dimensional. I feel there is a lack of diversity in storytelling across different geographical and cultural contexts. We need to better reflect our local settings in cinema. I hope this festival in Janakpur will bring new perspectives,” he said.
Jha also believes that the festival will encourage filmmakers to explore local narratives and significantly contribute to the long-term sustainability and international recognition of Nepali cinema.
Recognizing the Cultural and Artistic Significance of Mithila
Renowned actress Rekha Thapa emphasized that Mithila civilization, art, and women’s heritage hold great importance, and the festival will help highlight its significance. “Madhesh has a deep-rooted connection with art. However, in recent times, our culture and language have been under threat, and it is essential to preserve them,” she remarked.
Similarly, film producer Madhav Wagle pointed out that showcasing Mithila culture through cinema is costly, making it challenging for filmmakers to incorporate its stories into their productions. Meanwhile, director Suvarna Thapa stressed the importance of the festival in connecting Himal, Pahad, and Tarai, ensuring inclusivity for children, youth, and women.
Encouraging Young Filmmakers and Cultural Diversity
According to Kumar Bhaskar, head of Samvad Foundation, the Janakpur International Film Festival (JIFF) aims to promote the internationalization of Nepali cinema, inspire young filmmakers, and celebrate cultural diversity. He further highlighted that the festival is part of an initiative to showcase the significance of cinema in Nepal, present Nepali films on the global stage, provide opportunities for young filmmakers, and establish Nepal as an important hub in the international film industry.
With its focus on cultural representation, storytelling, and global outreach, the First Janakpur International Film Festival is set to create new possibilities for Nepali cinema and filmmakers.