Kathmandu – The movie Nakchong (Bijuwa), produced by Jyotiraj Rai, was inaugurated in Belbari, Morang. Unlike the usual practice of conducting movie inaugurations with traditional rituals such as breaking coconuts and chanting mantras, Nakchong opted for a unique approach. The inauguration was carried out by local Bijuwa, who performed a traditional ceremony involving the worship of a three-stone stove and Chindol to honor the ancestors.
The inauguration event saw the presence of several notable figures from the film industry. Among those present at the shooting location were writer and director Navin Subba and filmmaker Milan Chams. During the inaugural ceremony, director Navin Subba initiated the camera call, Ward Chairperson of Belbari Municipality Ward No. 11 Bikram Bantawa rolled the camera, and Milan Chams clapped the board. The inaugural shot featured artists Yasheli Yonghang and Hem Dilungcha.
Speaking after the ceremony, director Navin Subba emphasized the importance of storytelling from the Rai community, stating that the community’s narratives have been underrepresented in cinema. He mentioned that while he attempted to portray aspects of the Rai lifestyle in Gaun Aayeko Bato (The Road Home), it was insufficient. Guest director Milan Chams remarked that the movie Nakchong has already made history by beginning its journey with a ceremony honoring the ancestors. He expressed confidence that such films, rooted in cultural heritage, have immense potential in the international market.
Producer Jyotiraj Rai extended his gratitude to all the guests and team members present at the ceremony. He highlighted the significance of Nakchong and its focus on the Bijuwa, an integral part of Rai cultural events, including festivals, weddings, and ancestral rituals. He added that the film is being crafted for international film festivals.
The film Nakchong will be directed and written by Kiran Rai, known for his works Lunga and Jyupaicho. The cinematography will be handled by Babu Shrestha. The cast includes Yasheli Yonghang, Bhuvan Singh Rai, Sushma Subba, Saroj Khaling, Babin Rai, Anusha Rai, Sara Rai, Trichu Rai, Uttam Rai, Tayahang Rai, Uday Subba Kurumbang, Purna Limbu, Dinesh Koirala, Hem Dilungcha, Binod Pomo, Prakash Subba, and others.
