Bollywood luminary Nawazuddin Siddiqui touched down in Kathmandu on Saturday afternoon, adding a touch of star power to the premiere of “Shambhala,” a Nepali film making waves by being selected for the Berlin Film Festival. The airport terminal buzzed with excitement as Siddiqui arrived, greeted warmly by a throng of enthusiastic fans who gathered to catch a glimpse of their favorite star. Reflecting on his visit, Siddiqui shared with ANI, “I am here for the celebration of our movie called Shambhala. I am here for maybe two or three days.”
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Min Bahadur Bham, “Shambhala” is set for its much-anticipated premiere on Sunday. The film has already carved out a significant milestone, being the first Nepali movie to receive the honor of selection for the prestigious Berlin Film Festival. Adding to its accolades, lead actress Thinley Lhamo has earned significant recognition, winning the Boccalino d’Oro Prize at the Locarno Film Festival. The broader public in Nepal will have the chance to experience “Shambhala” when it is scheduled for release on September 13, 2024.
Siddiqui, known for his nuanced performances and versatility, expressed his enthusiasm not just for the film’s premiere but also for experiencing the sights of Kathmandu. During an interview with ANI, he mused, “Yes, of course, Nepal is a beautiful country. Since I am here in Kathmandu, I will see all the sights.” His interest in the project intensified during a meeting with Min Bahadur Bham at a previous film festival, where he voiced his eagerness to collaborate with the director in future endeavors.
The storyline of “Shambhala” is a poignant exploration of hope and resilience set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Nepali highlands. The narrative follows an expectant mother who embarks on a formidable journey with her husband’s younger brother, setting out in search of her missing spouse. The film’s production was a demanding endeavor, with shooting occurring at altitudes ranging from 4,200 to 6,000 meters in the rugged terrains of Dolpa, Karnali. This challenging filming environment adds an authentic touch to the movie, showcasing the stunning yet treacherous landscapes of Nepal.
Upon Siddiqui’s arrival, Bham personally welcomed him and his team, who had made the journey from Mumbai. Fans flocked to Siddiqui, seeking photos and autographs, adding to the celebratory atmosphere at the airport. Among the fans was Deepika Thapa, who managed to present Siddiqui with a red rose.
. She recounted her memorable experience, saying, “It was such a blessing. My friends and I had been waiting since morning. Meeting him was a ‘wow’ feeling. It was indeed a grand welcome.”
At 50, Nawazuddin Siddiqui boasts an impressive filmography that includes notable Bollywood films such as “Black Friday” (2004), “New York” (2009), “Peepli Live” (2010), “Kahani” (2012), and the critically acclaimed “Gangs of Wasseypur” series (2012). He has also achieved a unique distinction as the only actor with eight films officially selected and screened at the Cannes Film Festival. Siddiqui’s versatility extends to television, where he stars in two Emmy-nominated series, “Sacred Games” (2019) and “McMafia,” directed by James Watkins.
The inclusion of Siddiqui in “Shambhala” highlights the film’s unique narrative and its cross-cultural appeal. The movie meticulously depicts the life of an expectant mother who, driven by love and desperation, ventures into the highlands with her brother-in-law to find her missing husband. The storyline is enhanced by the film’s powerful visual and emotional depth, accentuated by the stunning and perilous shooting locales ranging from 4,200 to 6,000 meters in Dolpa, Karnali.
“This film is a monumental step for Nepali cinema,” said director Min Bahadur Bham. “It shines a light on our stories and landscapes, bringing them to a global audience. Having Nawazuddin Siddiqui attend our premiere is a tremendous honor, adding international attention to our local narratives.”
As Siddiqui prepares to immerse himself in the cultural and scenic offerings of Kathmandu, the spotlight on him and “Shambhala” underscores the growing global interest in diverse cinematic stories. The setting of the film, the journey it portrays, and the real-life warmth exhibited by Nepalese fans serve as a testament to the connective power of cinema.
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