From Streets to Screens: Kathmandu Launches Community Film Festival

Kathmandu– Kathmandu Metropolitan City has selected eight local organizations to manage its upcoming neighborhood film festival, with three additional organizations placed on a reserve list.

According to Kumari Rai, Chief of the Heritage and Tourism Department, the organizations were chosen following an evaluation of 20 proposals submitted in response to a public call. The assessment considered factors such as venue selection, proposed activities, implementation plans, and estimated costs.The metropolitan city will provide short films, LED screens, sound systems, curatorial support, and other technical assistance, while local organizations will be responsible for managing the events in their respective communities.

The festival will officially begin on June 19 at Khula Manch, with Echoes in the Valley managing the opening event. The following day, a program in Asan will be organized by Nilah Cultural Club.Throughout the Nepali month of Asar, events will be held every Friday and Saturday at various locations across the city. Participating organizations include Yen Pucha in the Balaju Bypass area, Nirnaya Nepal in Bagbazar, Nepal Bhasa Snyakane Foundation at Yatkha Bahal Bhaskarkirti Mahavihar, Nhuga Pa Sanskritik Misa Pucha in Lagantol, Luja Newa Sanskritik Pucha in Sundhara, and Maitidevi United Club at the open grounds of Maitidevi Temple.

The festival will feature short film screenings, discussions on cinema, art and creative industries, as well as cultural and creative performances.Kathmandu Metropolitan City said the neighborhood film festival is part of a broader effort to build momentum toward hosting an international film festival in the next fiscal year.