Kathmandu – Popular Nepali actress Barsha Raut is all set to expand her horizons as she prepares to star in her first Hindi feature film. The actress recently signed a contract in Kathmandu for a lead role in the upcoming movie titled ‘Rimjhim Gire Sawan’. Since her breakthrough in the 2016 blockbuster ‘Nai Nabhannu La 4’, Barsha has dominated the Nepali film industry with hits like ‘Chhakka Panja’, ‘Jatra’, ‘Jatrai Jatra’, and ‘Daal Bhaat Tarkari’. While she remains a household name in Nepal, this project marks her first full-length lead role in a foreign language film, positioning her as a significant talent representing Nepal on the global stage.
The film is a social drama set against the picturesque but challenging backdrop of the hills in Lachung, North Sikkim. Based on the Nepali community, it tells the intense story of Rimjhim Chhetri, a married woman and a mother who is sentenced to death. ‘Rimjhim Gire Sawan’ is designed as an emotional exploration of systemic corruption, justice, and the resilience of a woman fighting for truth and dignity in a harsh reality.
Directed by the versatile Arnab Paul, the project brings together a formidable team of artists and technicians. Paul is known for his ability to navigate between crime thrillers like ‘Taantrik’ and emotional sagas like ‘Meghmallar’. Before this venture, he gained international acclaim with ‘Brishti Tomakey Dilam’, winning Best Director at several prestigious festivals including the Nepal International Film Festival and the Santiago International Global Film Awards. For ‘Rimjhim Gire Sawan’, the confirmed cast includes Bollywood veterans such as Subrat Dutta, Rajesh Sharma, Ashish Vidyarthi, and Yashpal Sharma, along with Susmita Basumata from Kolkata in and as Rimjhim’s elder sister (Runjhun). The production is currently searching for an established Bollywood actor to play the pivotal role of ‘Sawan’.
Expressing her excitement, Barsha Raut stated that the character offered to her is wonderful and exactly the kind of role she has been seeking to push her limits. She acknowledged the challenges of filming in extreme conditions, with locations completely covered in snow, but emphasized that she embraces these challenges as a platform to showcase her growth. Barsha also noted her pride in working alongside experienced Bollywood co-stars, viewing it as a valuable learning opportunity and a chance for her Nepali fans to see her in a brand-new avatar. Director Arnab Paul shared that Barsha was chosen because the role of Rimjhim requires a distinct Nepali accent and immense talent, noting that she is likely the first Nepali actress since Manisha Koirala to take on such a leading role in a Hindi feature film.
The creative backbone of the film is equally distinguished, with a script penned by Rakesh Kumar Tripathi. A veteran writer and lyricist active since 2002, Tripathi has over 700 songs and 15 TV serials to his credit, along with the upcoming 2026 release ‘Tum Rahe Na Tum’. The technical department features Indian National Award-winning professionals, including D.O.P. Asim Bose, Editor Arghya Kamal Mitra, and Art Director Atanu Saha. Nang Anne Gogoi, an industry veteran with 12 years of experience across various film industries, serves as the Line Producer and Costume Designer. Additionally, the production team includes Ramgopal Timalsina and Nripesh Rupakhati from Nepal as Production Managers, ensuring a strong collaborative effort between the two nations’ film industries.
