In an industry often governed by trends, Sharmila Pandey stands as a rare constant, a producer whose films are not only commercially successful but also spark critical discussions. With six thought-provoking titles and a reputation for bringing global recognition to Nepali cinema, she remains unfulfilled. Twice awarded the National Film Award for Best Feature Film by the Government of Nepal, the International Narrative Feature Film at Williamsburg, the International Film and Music Contest in the USA, the LG Film Award for Best Film, and the Box Office Film Award, Sharmila Pandey is a producer whose journey, cross-border film production challenges, and next chapter we hope to present to readers through candid, insightful conversation. Among the films produced by her are “Chiso Manchhe,” “Parastree,” “Changa Chet,” “Ghar,” “Aama” and she is now preparing to produce “Aama 2.” A conversation with producer Sharmila Pandey on contemporary issues:
You have produced six films so far, each different, each impactful. Looking back, how has the journey been?
Tiring, beautiful, necessary. Each film taught me something about storytelling, but even more about people. When I started, I didn’t know if there would be an audience for what I wanted to say. Now, I realize there’s a whole generation waiting to see.
You have received both national and international acclaim. Which award has meant the most to you?
Winning the National Film Award for Best Feature Film twice for “Aama” and “Chiso Manchhe” was a big moment. But receiving the Cultural Icon of the Year Award from the Government of Nepal was more motivating. It reminded me that I wasn’t just making films. I was representing the voice of my country.
You have previously talked about the differences between releasing films in Nepal and India. What are those challenges?
Oh, they are like night and day. Nepal has heart. But there is also chaos. There is a lack of structure in distribution, and Indian producers are often left to fend for themselves. In India, you face stiff competition, but at least there’s a system. You know where to go, who to talk to, how to reach audiences. Nepal is catching up, but slowly.
You recently posted a picture with Pradeep Khadka on Facebook, which made many people talk. Can you tell us what’s happening?
Laughing… Let’s say the rumors aren’t entirely false. Pradeep and I had a long meeting about a script, and yes, there is a collaboration on the horizon. I can’t reveal much right now. But it’s big, it’s bold, and it’s unlike anything we’ve done before.
You’ve announced a sequel to one of your past hit films, “Aama Part 2.” Why return to that story now?
I always knew the world had more to say. “Aama” was deeply personal for me. And fans kept asking about the characters. I wanted to explore what happens when the past doesn’t let you go. “Aama Part 2” delves even deeper. Emotionally and thematically, it will be more beautiful.
What do you hope your legacy will be?
I hope I’ve made space for women. For storytellers. For stories that don’t fit into molds. And I hope that one day, someone younger will say, “If she can do it, then so can I.”
यो खबर पढेर तपाईलाई कस्तो महसुस भयो ?
