Rajendra Shalabh

Samundra Bhatta is a Nepali filmmaker, director, and writer known for her bold storytelling and cultural depth. A graduate of Toronto Film School, she made her directorial debut with Aadha Page (2016), a romantic drama. Her breakthrough came with Gunyo Cholo: The Dress (2024), a powerful film exploring gender identity and social stigma, starring Najir Husen. The film was selected for the prestigious Photo Film Market in Seattle, USA, gaining international attention. Bhatta’s work blends traditional Nepali themes with contemporary narratives, reflecting her commitment to inclusive cinema. As a rising voice in South Asian film, she continues to challenge norms through visual storytelling.

Shyam Chhetri is a Nepali director and writer currently based in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, recognized for his storytelling focused on diaspora life and emotional realism. Born on February 6, he has emerged as a new creative voice with his 2026 film Prawasi Jiwan, a project that reflects the struggles, hopes, and cultural identity of Nepali immigrants abroad. Chhetri continues to develop films that highlight community narratives and the lived experiences of the global Nepali diaspora.

Birendra Hamal is a theater artist, mentor and director. He has taught acting to hundreds of actors. Veteran actor and play director Birendra Hamal, who has been working in the theater for the past 35 years, has directed about 5 dozen plays, and has acted in hundreds of plays and a dozen films. Birendra, who became a hero in the film 'Godhuli', has already presented his acting skills in films like majadur, kaha bhetiyela, a mero hajur, shahid, sukha-dukha.

Zaun Yonzan is a Nepali filmmaker best known as the director of Crawling Crows: Aankha, Nepal’s first film to win Best Film at the 62nd Asia Pacific Film Festival in 2025. His work blends bold visual language with socially rooted storytelling, positioning him among the new-generation directors bringing Nepali cinema to global attention.