Ugen Chhopel

Madhusudan Bhattarai (also credited as Madhu Sudan Bhattarai) is a Nepali film director, story writer, and chief assistant director active in the industry since the early 2000s. Known for his grounded storytelling and command over commercial drama, he has directed feature films such as Black Night (2013), Blackmail (2012), Nirbhay (2017), Destination Kathmandu (2018), and the upcoming Hami Teen Bhai (2026), where he also serves as the story writer.Beginning his career as a chief assistant director and assistant director, Bhattarai contributed to projects like Pahuna (2003), Daiko Sasurali (2010), Gorkha Rakshyak (2008), and Pratikaar (2013) before transitioning into full directorial leadership. His early technical roles—including work as chief assistant editor on Kathmandu (2010)—helped shape his precise visual and narrative style.

Hira Singh Khatri is regarded as one of the earliest architects of Nepali cinema, best known for directing Aama (1964), the first Nepali feature film produced in Nepal under the Royal Nepal Film Corporation. His work marked the formal beginning of Nepal’s national film industry, establishing narrative, technical, and production standards for future filmmakers. Khatri later directed Hijo Aaja Bholi (1967), further strengthening the foundation of Nepali storytelling on screen. His films emphasized patriotism, social values, and emotional realism, influencing a generation of emerging directors. As a pioneering figure who helped transition Nepal from stage and radio culture into cinematic expression, Hira Singh Khatri’s contribution remains a defining milestone in the history of Nepali filmmaking.

Narayan Puri is a veteran Nepali film director known for his contributions to the golden era of Nepali cinema. Born on January 15, 1968, in Syangja, Nepal, he has directed several acclaimed films that span genres from drama to action. His notable works include Shankar (1997), Ragat (1997), Mamaghar (2002), and Aago (2000), all of which are remembered for their storytelling and emotional depth. Puri’s directorial style often blends social realism with strong character arcs, and he played a key role in shaping the narrative tone of 1990s and early 2000s Nepali films. His film Mero Hajur (2002) also gained popularity for its romantic elements and musical appeal.

Gagan Birahi was a prominent Nepali film producer, director, writer, and lyricist, known for his versatile contributions to Nepali cinema and literature. Active from the early 1990s, he worked across filmmaking, screenwriting, and songwriting, earning recognition as a multi‑talented creative figure in the industry.He made his film debut with Sankalp (1993), followed by contributions to several notable films including Miteri Gaun and Badal. As a lyricist, he wrote songs for films such as Bhauju and Truck Driver, showcasing his poetic depth and narrative sensitivity.Gagan Birahi directed Miteri Gaun, the first Nepali feature film fully shot in Japan, marking a milestone in Nepali cinema’s international production history. Alongside filmmaking, he remained active in literature, writing poems, stories, and lyrics throughout his career.His final published work was the poetry collection “Hastakshar”, which he released from his hospital bed, demonstrating his lifelong dedication to writing even during his final days.Gagan Birahi passed away in October 2018 at the age of 61, leaving behind a respected legacy in both Nepali cinema and literature.