Renowned Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui touched down in Kathmandu this past Saturday, making waves as he attended the highly-anticipated premiere of “Shambhala.” The Nepali film, an entry for the prestigious Berlin Film Festival, has already captivated audiences and critics alike. Siddiqui’s arrival was met with undeniable enthusiasm from fans who had gathered in large numbers at the airport, eager to meet the star.
“Shambhala,” directed by the talented Min Bahadur Bham, is a unique tale that navigates the rugged and picturesque highlands of Dolpa, Karnali. The story revolves around an expectant mother who, accompanied by her husband’s younger brother, treks across the challenging terrains in search of her missing husband. Filming at altitudes between 4,200 to 6,000 meters, “Shambhala” was not just a cinematic journey but also a tribute to human endurance and emotional resilience.
Upon his arrival, Siddiqui expressed his excitement for the event in an interview with ANI. “I am here for the celebration of our movie called ‘Shambhala’,” he stated. “I am here for maybe two or three days.” His warm welcome included fans eagerly seeking autographs and photos, with Siddiqui graciously acknowledging their admiration. Among them was Deepika Thapa, who managed to hand Siddiqui a red rose, describing the moment as a “blessing” and a “wow feeling.”
The film’s significance is further elevated by its selection for the Berlin Film Festival, marking a historic achievement as the first Nepali film to earn this honor. Lead actress Thinley Lhamo has received international acclaim, securing the Boccalino d’Oro Prize at the Locarno Film Festival. The film is set to release publicly in Nepal on September 13, 2024, and expectations are high.
In addition to his film-related engagements, Siddiqui plans to take advantage of his time in Kathmandu by exploring the city. “Yes, of course, Nepal is a beautiful country. Since I am here in Kathmandu, I will see all the sights,” he told ANI.
. His affinity for Nepal and its culture further exemplifies his passion for exploring different landscapes and stories beyond the Bollywood limelight.
It was at a previous film festival where Siddiqui and Bham first met, planting the seed for a future collaboration. Siddiqui had expressed great interest in Bham’s directorial prowess and is looking forward to potential joint projects. Bham’s presence at the airport to welcome Siddiqui reflects the camaraderie and mutual respect between the filmmaker and the celebrated actor.
At 50 years old, Siddiqui brings a seasoned and distinguished career to the table, having portrayed memorable roles in critically acclaimed Bollywood films such as “Black Friday” (2004), “New York” (2009), “Peepli Live” (2010), “Kahani” (2012), and the “Gangs of Wasseypur” series (2012). His resume also includes an enviable record of eight films officially selected and screened at the Cannes Film Festival. Furthermore, Siddiqui stars in two Emmy-nominated series, “Sacred Games” (2019) and “McMafia” directed by James Watkins, solidifying his status as a versatile artist across various platforms.
The storyline of “Shambhala” offers a poignant narrative that goes beyond the conventional cinematic experience. An expectant mother embarking on an arduous journey with her husband’s younger brother portrays themes of familial love, sacrifice, and relentless hope. The breathtaking landscapes of Dolpa, which served as the backdrop, add an element of grandeur and beauty to this moving tale.
The shooting conditions posed significant challenges, but Min Bahadur Bham and his dedicated team braved the harsh weather and high altitudes to bring authenticity and raw beauty to the screen. Each frame of “Shambhala” captures the essence of the highlands, creating a tapestry that is as much about the location as it is about the characters’ emotional worlds.
As the buzz around “Shambhala” continues to grow, the film’s premiere in Kathmandu marks a significant moment for Nepali cinema on the global stage. Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s presence underscores the film’s cross-border appeal and highlights the collaborative nature of modern filmmaking. His journey to Kathmandu has not only broadened his horizons but also shone a spotlight on the rich tapestry of stories emerging from Nepal.
The excitement and fervor surrounding the premiere are palpable, with fans, filmmakers, and the media closely watching the developments. As “Shambhala” gears up for its public release next year, the anticipation is building for what promises to be an unforgettable cinematic experience that bridges cultures and hearts.
