KATHMANDU: The one-day ‘China Film Day,’ organized by the Nepal Film and Cultural Academy, took place successfully in Kathmandu.
Former Finance Minister Barshaman Pun served as the chief guest at the event, which was attended by prominent figures from Nepali cinema and literature, including senior artists Nir Shah, Sunil Thapa, Kedar Ghimire (Magne Buda), alongside a strong presence of Chinese filmmakers and artists.
In his opening remarks, Chief Guest Barshaman Pun expressed his happiness at participating in this inaugural event of China Film Day.
He described it as a celebration of cultural relations between the two countries, stating that he believes it will help deepen their connection through cinema.
He also mentioned that this event opens up new possibilities for the Nepali film industry.
KP Pathak, President of the Nepal Film and Cultural Academy, emphasized that today’s event is not just about watching films; it serves as an opening gateway to something much larger—an enduring partnership between Nepal and China.
He noted that both countries share a rich history of collaboration, and this event represents a significant step toward extending their friendship through the realm of cinema.
Su Yang, Director of the International Department at the China Film Administration, remarked on Nepal’s beauty and its ancient civilization while expressing hopes that this film festival would enhance cooperation between Chinese and Nepali filmmakers.
Wang Xin, Deputy Chief Mission (DCM) from the Chinese Embassy highlighted how recent years have seen China become a major market for global cinema.
He referenced last year’s agreement during Nepal’s Prime Minister’s visit to China to hold a Chinese film festival in Nepal in 2025.
This year marks 60 years of diplomatic relations between China and Nepal as well as being designated as Visit Nepal Year.
Wang stated that events like China Film Day would provide a platform for exchanges among filmmakers from both countries.
A 14-member delegation led by Su Yang attended along with notable personalities such as Yu Hong—actress from “G for Gap” who has won two Golden Rooster Awards—Zheng Zheng (Deputy Director of Market Department at China Film Administration), Owen Yang (head of Tiger Pictures Entertainment), Jing Jiao (director of “Personal Persistence”), Lu Wei (screenwriter for “Life of Luosang”), Zhang Gudong (director), along with Zhang Yudi (director of “Midsummer Voice”).
The event held at QFX Chhaya Center featured screenings of three Chinese films: “Her Story” directed by Yi Hui Sao; “Midsummer Voice” directed by Yu Di Zhang; and “G for Gap,” directed by Fei Long.
The program was organized collaboratively by the China Film Administration, Chinese Embassy, China Film Archive, and Nepal Film & Cultural Academy.
Yu Hong also made an appearance during the program after gaining popularity among audiences through her performance in “G for Gap.”
Following her screening presentation she expressed her gratitude: “I am very happy to be partaking in this film festival; I hope our films bring our two countries closer together.”
After each screening session dedicated discussions were held where producers directors participated actively engaging with audiences on various themes explored within their films.
They emphasized how initiatives like ‘China Film Day’ play an important role in bridging cultural gaps between Nepalese and Chinese communities while promoting mutual understanding—and they expressed hopes for more such programs moving forward which could further artistic exchanges beneficially impacting both nations’ artistic scenes.
Overall response towards ‘China Film Day’ was overwhelmingly positive highlighting excitement around upcoming collaborations fostering enduring connections amidst vibrant cinematic expressions showcasing shared values across diverse narratives weaving beautifully connecting cultures.
Comment