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The grand premiere of the film Jaar has concluded successfully. Following premieres in Sikkim and Siliguri—Indian cities with a significant Nepali-speaking population—a grand screening was held on Tuesday at QFX in Labim Mall, Lalitpur, attended by various distinguished guests.
The premiere began with a traditional dance representing Magar culture. Notable attendees included former Prime Minister and Naya Shakti Party (Nespa) chair Dr. Baburam Bhattarai, Lalitpur MP Udaya Shamsher Jabara, actress Manisha Koirala, political leader Hisila Yami, actor Bipin Karki, actress Keki Adhikari, directors Pradip Bhattarai, Gyanendra Deuja, Dipendra Lama, Nawal Nepal, as well as a large number of writers and journalists.
After watching the film, most attendees praised Jaar. The film has been lauded for portraying themes of culture, tradition, bravery, love, and heroism. The visual effects and music have been especially appreciated.
Dr. Bhattarai commented that Jaar, based on a story by Indra Bahadur Rai and set 200 years in the past, is a truly original film. He emphasized that the current generation should watch the film to better understand that historical period and the practice of Jaar in Nepal.
“The director has artistically presented the story with the same emotional depth appreciated by readers. I believe today’s youth should watch Jaar to learn about Nepal’s history,” he said. “It was a pleasure to see on screen the story I had read during my IA studies.”
He also praised the film’s music by singer and composer Jhuma Limbu and suggested that the state should provide tax exemptions for the film.
Lalitpur MP Udaya Shamsher Jabara remarked that Jaar was unique and entirely original. He congratulated the team for their excellent work and noted that the film delivers a strong social message, urging the audience to watch it.
Actress Manisha Koirala stated that Jaar is evidence of the rising quality of Nepali cinema. “We have been producing outstanding films recently, and Jaar is a continuation of that trend,” she said. “It brings our history and literature to life through cinema. Despite some technical challenges, our storytelling style allows us to compete globally.”
Actor Bipin Karki called Jaar an important step in the development of Nepali cinema, while actress Keki Adhikari praised director Phurba Chhiring Lama’s strong confidence.
Leader Hisila Yami described Jaar as a powerful film with contemporary relevance. She said the current economic and political challenges in Nepal are metaphorically like Jaar hanging around the necks of young people. Thousands of young women are being driven abroad, she noted, and suggested that those in government should watch the film and learn from it.
Director Dipendra Lama, after watching Jaar, commented on its artistic excellence and its new cinematic heights for Nepal.
“With painting-like frames, immersive sound design, original music, and deep performances, the film appeals to both the eyes and ears. But more than that, it moves the heart and mind,” he said. “Jaar adds a crucial brick to the artistic height of Nepali cinema. After Sambala, Jaar has once again delivered deep satisfaction. It is an enviable and admirable work.”
Attendees at the premiere praised director Lama and the powerful performances of actors Saugat Malla, Anup Bikram Shahi, and Geetanjali Thapa.
After the screening, actor Saugat Malla expressed his joy at portraying a character he had envisioned for the past 26–27 years. “This was a dream role. Many times, I felt as though I had already done this film. I had been waiting for it for years,” he said. “Any actor would crave such a role—and I got the chance. I’m happy.”
Actor Anup Bikram Shahi added that the film attempts to portray history on screen and expressed confidence in audience support. “We’ve tried to bring history to the screen. I’m confident you will support us,” he said.
Based on real events from the 1800s, Jaar is set to be released across Nepal on Baisakh 26 (May 8).
Jaar is based on a 225-year-old story written by literary figure Indra Bahadur Rai and directed by Phurba Chhiring Lama.
Produced by Feri Tale Pictures, Jaar is rooted in social issues but is a complete package, according to director Phurba. He is confident that the film will win the audience’s hearts.
Jaar features lead roles by Saugat Malla, Anup Bikram Shahi, and actress Geetanjali Thapa.
The film is a collaborative production between Hope Reels, LA Seven Shorts, Baral Studio, and Kewa Production, and was shot in Sikkim.
The executive producers of Jaar are Trilochan Pandey, Niraj Rai, Nursang Bhutia, Jyoti Kshetri, and Pema Rinzing Lepcha.
The cinematography was done by Saravanan Elavarasu, editing by Akhilesh Rai, and music composed by Jhuma Limbu and Ganga Thapa.
The production team has announced that Jaar will be released simultaneously in Nepal, India, and international markets. In Nepal, the film will be distributed by Apple Entertainment, Reach Entertainment, and FD Company.
