www.fridayweekly.com.np Every Thursday | ISSUE 126 | RS. 20 SUBSCRIBER COPY 11 July 2012 | @& cfiff9 @)^( ISSN 2091-1092

9 772091 109009

Autographed Pullout Inside www.facebook.com/fridayweekly

Morphing Cinema

Nepali films are turning a corner; Nepali cinema is going through a transitional phase. In many respects, we have shed the old skin and have now donned a new one. From cliché, we are moving towards more experimental films. Deviating away from regularity, we are creating a wave motion – a wave of new Nepali cinema.

— GUEST EDITOR, RAJESH HAMAL

For more, turn to page 2 2 Issue 126 | 11 July 2012 Fr!day cover

guest editor Morphing Cinema — Rajesh Hamal (As told to Bijaya Adhikari)

t would be injustice for Nepali started becoming regular – at on the other hand, audiences cinemas to be compared with least in the making. At this felt that films was the medium films worldwide. We have phase, a sense of security and to escape reality, aspire to larger Imuch to achieve, we have so consistency was created; film than life hero figures and routine many stones to turn. If we are making, production and acting sing-and-dance was the only to compare Nepali films, then could be taken up professionally. form of visual entertainment. we should compare it with the Viewers could relate to what This formulaic repetitiveness past of Nepali cinema. When social mosaic existed and what and prolifically used thematic I entered the Nepali film scene social prosaic could not work. made the film scene stagnant. about two and a half decades Those who could not make it Around late ‘90s, Indian films ago, the entire fraternity was in this phase, vanished off from realized their morbid stagnancy like a blank board – there was the film scene as a whole, and and took a leap of fate, their film no “Nepali film scenario” to those who did well came out as scenario changed drastically – talk about. Films were made stars. we somehow were not able to sporadically and taking up films catch up with the wave. We fell as an area of expertise or as a If I was a person short. career was unthinkable. I entered who could not But now, at the fourth phase Nepali film industry not because adapt to the – there is something happening. high. New envelopes have been life, but somehow, still not the it was professionally lucrative, Audiences have evolved as the opened – new ideas have come topic of discussion at large – has but my passion to do films drove times, I would international film scene has out to play. Filmmakers try now gotten a playground and me towards it. I do believe film have probably evolved, and finally, film makers their hands on varying content abundant experiments are being doers of that era entered the film perished. But I have paralleled themselves with touching multiple subjects and conducted centralizing this topic scene for the same – the will and the line of fire that is taking up issues that matter – and people as the theme of a story. Right at the passion to do it. But anyone can visualize that international themes and subject give them a chance, give good this moment, sexual themes are working in films always has a exciting times matters. I would say people feedback. getting their love-hate forum at plan B set in mind. At this phase, are ahead. would probably not want to see Film is not entirely a form every dais that exists in the film film audience and film makers the “Hey” dialogue deliverer of art – it should always carry industry. I believe that this is also had no choice. Makers used to Whilst entering the third Rajesh Hamal anymore; they that commercial value. In today’s a phase: the topic of sex has come make one or two films per year phase, however, we took a would want to see Rajesh scene both of these pledges out because film connoisseurs – and audiences received it with wrong turn. Nepali films Hamal as a person, a real life work together like a cogwheel. makers and viewers – alike have acclaim. started becoming repetitive. inspirer, a man following what Audiences have opened their felt its need. Nepali film industry And then we shed the Makers worked on only those he must do. In this period of hearts and makers have opened needs to go through it. first layer of skin to move to angles that they felt could a year and a half or two years, their hands. Topic of sex, the Time of depression, which the second phase, when we garner a stable earning – and experimentations have run inevitable need in every human was like an overwhelming night, seems to have passed and we have seen a new dawn. I believe that future of Nepali films is really bright. I often tell my counterparts, those who have passed these decades with me, “We need to become a pickle. We need to provide that taste, that spicy feel, even when consumed years later.” I abide by this belief myself. If I was a person who could not adapt to the times, I would have probably perished. But I can visualize that exciting times are ahead. New film makers have come with equal zeal and equal enthusiasm that Nepali film scene will not die just like that. I recently caught an interview with a young director who related that he is making films because he wanted to tell a story. Makers like these, when they do bring exciting new ideas to the table – with such pumped up energy – they can do wonders. Times are exciting. !

Get a behind-the-scenes sneak peak of the cover shoot at www.fridayweekly.com.np/videos

by Anil Shahi page3 make your statement one question As a child, what was your ‘dream career’? We find out from four prominent actors of our film industry about their ‘dream careers’ in their younger days, and what turns in life led them to the successful career they now have: — Mannat Shrestha

To be honest, when I was a child, I did not have a dream ambition as such. It was my dad who dreamt of making me an administrative officer. I was a really good football player, so later I thought I would choose football as my profession. It was just a coincidence in 1974 when I was working for the Statesmen Calcutta as a model and photojournalist, that I met the iconic Dev Anand. He told me that he would like to have me in his movie. That’s when I got my break and “Ek duje ke liye” started off my career as an actor.

Sunil Thapa

I have been a performer since I was a toddler! In my lower kindergarten days I would be thrilled to perform or do any sort of acting on stage. When I was in the first grade, I remember, I said I want to become an actor someday. As I grew up, I got into theater and one day I got the leading role in “Kagbeni”. So, in retrospect, I followed my dream through and circumstances have been favorable, both of which turned my dream into a pleasant reality.

Saugat Malla

I stepped into the film industry when I was 14 years old. At the time I was too young to make a decision for myself. Also when you are that young, you tend to change your plans from time to time. So I’d imagine myself as a doctor sometime, then again as a poet, or the next time as a pilot. I did not have any fixed intentions. However, subconsciously I think I have always been an actress because when I started to work in the movies, acting was never work. I always felt like I was born for this.

Karishma Manandhar

Since I was a child, I felt like I understood children well, and it wasn’t any different when I grew up. So, I always wanted to be a child psychologist. I felt like I could connect with children. But when I was studying in Gyanodaya School, my teachers saw a talent for the performing arts in me and pushed me to act in plays and sing. Later, I started doing music videos and one day Alok Nembang called me for the audition of “Sano Sansar”. At the time, I was pretty reluctant to step into the film industry. However, after a lot of thought, I decided to give it a shot. So, I went for the auditions, later he called me and told me that I was chosen. I basically went with the flow and now I love what I’m doing. I feel like I was born for this and there is no looking back. However, I still haven’t given up on my childhood dream. Even if I do not become a certified child psychologist, I still want to do something for the betterment of children.

Namrata Shrestha right into it with Rajesh Hamal Rajesh Hamal: In the old times, proceeding with poignant words there weren’t many movies. about the state of the industry: Nepali movie on its own was feaissues that matter ture novel and an attraction. It took Rajesh Hamal: I would like to a while to get over the ‘movie welcome us all to this interaction equals Indian fims’ mould. program and would like to start Terms of Entertainment and say that this is the age of Shishir Rana: Twenty years change in society and technology. ago we wanted to do something Nine members of the film fraternity representing different facets of film making In our fraternity we have a new. We started a TV show with new generation of filmmakers a young cast of Rajesh Hamal, had gathered for an interaction organized by Fr!day to present different with new ideas and new Karishma Manandhar among perspectives on Nepali films. interpretation. Twenty years ago others and the film producers — Abhishek Mishra it was unimaginable the things were vehemently against it. we can get done today in cinema. They were under the notion that There have been drastic changes why would now people pay to in these few years and I welcome see these actors on screen if the all the creative sides here. But appear on free TV? So there was with that being said, the ground a time of ‘politics’ in th industry, we stand on is not very firm. It so to say. is still very shaky and can yield Rajesh Hamal: Getting back to any direction. Now there is no the current time how do you see right or wrong, what we have this time and what do you think is our own approach. And this is the time’s need? approach has made this time the most expressive time in history Bidur Pandey: Broad and in all fields. And not just in creative minds are needed in the Nepal, across the world. We have industry. different cinema stroking the Neelima Bajracharya: The kind discussion of ‘mass vs class’, and of hype that “Loot” and “Chapali rather than sweeping issues of Height” created was a success on concern under the rug, I would its own and should be motivation propose to start this program to future projects. But the with the questions how should problem is how long to follow we create? What is ‘good cinema’ this trend. Blind following will after all? not take us in the right direction; Back Row (left to right) Shishir Rana, Abhinash Bikram Shah, Lokesh Bajracharya, Dayahang Rai and Nischal Basnet Raksha Rana: Good and bad we have to keep breaking trends. Front Row (left to right) Neelima Bajracharya, Rajesh Hamal, Bidhur Pandey and Raksha Rana Venue Courtesy: Degaa Courtesy: Venue for me are perception. What is Lokesh Bajracharya: It is all true and helpful for progress is egaa in Kumaripati would be moderated by the Shah and cinematographer about making good cinema for constructive criticism. Let me was the venue for the no-introduction-needed actor Bidur Pandey. The talk of the me. I believe all target groups take the example of “Loot” (the meeting of some of the Rajesh Hamal. Present were town director of “Loot” Nischal cannot always be pleased. And example of “Loot” would be tossed Dmost prominent figures reputed film fraternity members Basnet was present with his also what defines good cinema is often) since the director is here in the Nepali film industry. And like director Raksha Rana, “Loot” actor Dayahang Rai. the flow to it. with us, I went with a circle of the reason for this ensemble actor/director Shishir Rana, Rounding up the present cast friends who really liked it. It was Abinash Bikram Shah: Different was the ECS Fr!day initiated editor Lokesh Bajracharya, was the vivacious costume stylist a ground root level movie where concepts that have caught the Film Interaction Session that script writer Abinash Bikram Neelima Bajracharya, and we got the so-touted vulgar language attention of the audiences is a and scenes deemed necessary. It good sign. This means we can go is a part of language. beyond traditional concepts and Rajesh Hamal: So what is the explore new content. bar? Own satisfaction or box Bidur Pandey: Old filmmakers office success? are being given a run for their Raksha Rana: Good feedback is money with these new concepts most necessary. I have realized by new directors rather than the that suspense doesn’t always same style repeated to death. work. It is also to be noted that Rajesh Hamal: That is a big films that work in Kathmandu issue, isn’t it? Over-saturation. might not do so well outside the Stuck in a concept. Valley or vice versa. It is best Dayahang Rai: “Darpan Chaya” to get feedback from both these was a maverick work for me in groups. Sometimes the difference many ways. For me good cinema between these two sections is the has to have characters that are typical Nepali film. relatable. If I watch Ramayana, I Nischal Basnet: Well there is see different characters but none a divided audience even in the that I can relate to. Good cinema valley. What is important is I is relatable and showcases the have a story to tell and I want change in society. You have to to tell it my way. Some kind of connect to the audience. movies can do well in the cities Bidur Pandey: I just want to alone and still cater to various allude here is that the language in audiences. Nepali movies should cinema is quite out of control… gather both these audiences. Rajesh Hamal: Cinema has Rajesh Hamal: But how do we entertainment as the prime determine what’s right, what’s factor that surely caters to all. wrong? This is the language on And films, of course, need to the streets and if it is contextual, have that commercial value. is it not acceptable? While striking a balance we Nischal Basnet: Well I can tell need to be able to churn out our you that the censor board had a subjective ‘good’ cinemas. lot of inhibitions with “Loot” but Nischal Basnet: There is a in all their majesty they had no different mentality these days. clue what and what not to censor, Now if I could take a normal because some of the language Nepali movie, the trailer is was raw, but not outright vulgar. usually funny for the wrong Neelima Bajracharya: If I may, reasons. And I do think people I would like to convey that the approach these films with a directors and producers have pessimistic mentality. But we for far too long focussed on the want to explore more, break one top lead actor/actress. The clichés and make stories that are whole cast needs to be treated original inspirations. And not and dressed to tell the story of just concepts from the Indian or the movie. We can’t just spotlight Korean films. the one on top. Fr!day Issue 126 | 11 July 2012 5

Raksha Rana: We never know Rajesh Hamal: Well I can’t what the audience wants do we? reiterate enough what an I mean outside the valley Rajesh exciting phase this is for all of us viewers opine Hamal is still the mythical hero. as makers and viewers. It is a time Take Nikhil Upreti, he is still for self-confidence, optimism and perceived as an action star, and the next years will be harking in until he gets a few kicks in, the more changes. If we could get Spectators Express audience isn’t really satisfied. some last words… Making commercial masala A peek into the expectations and opinions of the viewers from Nepali cinema. Shishir Rana: It is so much movies with the hi-tech digital easier for the new movie makers. — Eren Shrestha format is the way to go. The cost and the whole logistics Nischal Basnet: I want to make was astronomically expensive Nepali cinema has seen some changes. Movie makers have been taking bold risks to experiment. movies as viewer. The movies I back in the day. Some of these experiments have worked as commercial hits while others have been limited to critical would like to see. That I would acclaim. But if a movie is to be judged upon the target audience’s response then understanding Bidur Pandey: True, and all enjoy. their tastes is crucial for film makers. Here is an effort to bridge the gap between perspectives of things must be organized and film makers and the viewers. Fr!day speaks to Kathmandu denizens from different walks of life Rajesh Hamal: We talked about planned thoroughly before the about what they like about Nepali movies and what they expect from our film industry. the different audiences; inside movie hits the floors for shooting. and outside the valley, and Raksha Rana: There were so various in between. You can’t Shyam Ghimire, Student, Sajina many aspects that we couldn’t Tamrakar, satisfy everyone with the same Bachelor in Arts, Year I portray before because the Housewife film. So, can we merge these “The gap between the taste of film advanced machinery available “I believe audiences? makers and the audience is quite today wasn’t there years back. prominent in mainstream movies. Nepali film Nischal Basnet: There is a Film makers, mostly, make films with industry is in a Neelima Bajracharya: Movie want to gather all sections of profit motive, targeting audiences gradual trend still has to follow its concept. Has of progression. the mass. I believe the script has in village areas as the crowd there to have a clear view of what it is is large. This has disconnected the Now, it has to be simplified and the target and the depiction has to be true audience of city areas from the been able to should be on the middle ground give a Nepali to the story. Also, people should Nepali film industry. But movies so it can appeal to all parts. Even such as “Loot” have tied all kinds of audiences into one touch and make the whole movie be trendsetters and stylistic in music its the same. thread. Also, technology used in Nepali films need to be lively with a great presentation. It is movies should lead the way. upgraded as it is one of the important aspects to making a good to be inspired from Bollywood Lokesh Bajracharya: The successful movie. But, there is no doubt that our industry but one must make sure to show Abinash Bikram Shah: In these development of original sound lacks talented actors.” some creativity while copying. The two years the movies have been next thing I am happy about is we tracks is very encouraging. of really good potential. are getting a good number of catchy songs in Nepali films so Bollywood Abinash Bikram Shah: The Sabita Dhakal, Shopkeeper Lokesh Bajracharya: Yes, is no more the sole source for film industry is gradually they’ve been technically sound “I really like the music of Nepali entertainment. In many Nepali films, understanding the importance as well. films. Apart from that, the fights the dialogue delivery and acting skills of good scripts. are also being directed really well. of actors on screen is not natural Nischal Basnet: As original as The costumes they put on are also enough which leaves grounds for Shishir Rana: Well every facet of possible for me. There is a lot of designed nicely these days. I look criticism and mockery.” cinema is developing. I remember optimism and I have read some forward for more Nepali films how anyone on set was given any which are closer to reality and even scripts and seen films that are responsibility. The script would based on real incidents because that very much content driven. gives viewers a lot of insight.” come in installments as the movie rolled on. Dayahang Rai: I will be against the copy cat phenomena that has Bidur Pandey: Getting Laxman Gurung, Businessman, been prevalent here in Nepali everything done on the fly on set Sagun Overseas cinema for so very long. We was just plain wrong. must have our own style. Follow The heart of a film is its story. So, a movie should not just focus on sex Dayahang Rai: It is so very the story and the money will and violence but should enhance important to know how to tell a follow you. knowledge and impart useful story and believe in it. insights to the viewers along with Rajesh Hamal: Thank you the entertainment factor. A decade Neelima Bajracharya: everyone. This has been a great back or two, Nepali films had such Jamuna Rai, Asst. Manager, BJC Absolutely. One needs to be meeting of the minds. And amazing and diverse storylines Solutions passionate about his/her project I think we need to steer the which perfectly matched the needs “Currently, I would suggest the film otherwise it just won’t have any changes in the direction of good of the people then. Hence, a well makers to make such movies that guided story line that addresses contemporary demands is soul in it. progress. Thank you. ! would inspire youth to get involved a must.” in development of Nepal. But even such serious message needs to presented with perfect gravity so that the audiences are entertained as well as informed. There are a couple of such movies but they seem to either present the matter over seriously or without the required thump.”

Ram Hari Koirala, Client Service Associate, Senior Projectionist, QFX “Nepali movies are doing good business lately. Young generation oriented movies are being made which has caught the attention of youngsters who previously stuck to Bollywood and Hollywood. I believe art should reflect life. So, things that have gradually been acceptable to our lives should be incorporated in films so that it is vivacious. For instance, there is no worry in having sensual scenes in our movies but it should be presented in a sophisticated way and to an extent that is digestible by the society.” TOP 3

With events to the left and right, Fr!day makes it a little bit easier for eget morevents out of your weekends you to choose events to check out this week and the next. Here are our top three picks: 1. ASARAI MAINAMA: A MONTH DEDICATED TO NEPALI MUSIC House of Music is bringing forward traditional sound that Nepali bands what’s on have to offer. It is celebrating the month of Asar with outstanding artists and their talents. 2. FILM SHOW AT LASANAA A film directed by Samrath Kharel, ‘Nhuchhe Sir’ will be showcased at things to do Lsanaa which will be followed by a discussion. sun . mon . tue . wed . thu . fri . sat 3. THE MONSOON WORKSHOP 12 13 14 Organized by The Monsoon Collective, this is an opportunity for engineers, artists and thinkers to come together and organize projects. 15 16 17 18

POST US: Email event details to [email protected] or call 5011571/ 5011639/ 5011730/ 5011731 for listings. Listings are free but inclusion is not guaranteed due to limited space. Beauticians’ Talents Showcased

Date: 5 July (Thursday); Time: 5 pm onwards; Venue: Hotel Radisson Kathmandu ART AND THEATER Change” is his debut as a creative trees remain a metaphor of the crux painter. The paintings express his of survival. Do visit NAC to witness Sunsilk, a prominent hair-care brand, is sponsoring ‘Sunsilk Bridal Makeup and Climate-Change Hair-Do Competition’ in partnership with Saundarya Kala Byawasayi Sangh concerns, solely focused on the Kushwaha’s art. Date: 5 July (Thursday) important global issue of climate (Beautician Professional Association of Nepal). Short listing of the participants Time: 10 am to 6 pm change. His application of Tree-series Entrance : Free for the finale began on 19 June with auditions held in Kathmandu in which Venue: Nepal Art Council, Baber technique expresses his concern Mahal they produced a complete bridal look in 40 minutes. The grand finale, over climate change and green-house MISCELLANEOUS featuring 33 finalists will take place at Hotel Radisson Kathmandu on 5 July. 4220735 effect. The theme of global warming is supported by color and texture of leaf, FILM SHOW AT LASANAA At the grand finale, makeup and hair-do will be done in a room backstage. A solo painting exhibition by Sunil Pd. Kushwaha, “Climate- roots, trunks and barks. For him the Date: 5 July (Thursday) Each participant will get two hours to complete the model’s full bridal look, Time: 3 pm following which both the models and beauticians will walk on stage to showcase their work. Award ceremony will take place the same evening. The training sessions are conducted by De Runway with Rachana Gurung Sharma as grooming instructor and Prasant Tamrakar as the choreographer, and the prominent beautician, Kamala Shrestha, also actively involved. Specific bridal make up following certain themes which will cover most ethnicities of the country will be exhibited. This event is a platform for beauticians to showcase their work and get recognized for it. This will also give the upcoming beauticians an opportunity to explore this field and test their talents. Ticket price: Rs. 2000 (Tickets for the event are available through Saundariya Kala Bewasayi Sangh and De Runway) Qs With Srikanth Srinivasamadhavan 3 Managing Director, Unilever Nepal Limited Sunsilk Bridal Makeup and Hair-do Competition With Sunsilk being the main sponsor for the ‘Bridal Makeup and Hair-do Competition’, the Managing Director of Unilever Nepal Limited elaborates on the details of the event: This is Sunsilk’s first year as main sponsor for the Bridal Makeup and Hair-do Competition. How has your experience with this event been so far? Sunsilk being a ‘Hair Expert’, specializes in making expert-touched, professional standard hair-care available to every woman. This event gives beauty professionals an opportunity to learn from the best and showcase their talents. We are happy to associate with an event that provides opportunity for beauticians from across the country to interact and learn as well as display their skills. I am sure that this will be a memorable and enriching experience for all those involved in it. In what ways have the grooming sessions helped the candidates in terms of their skills and abilities? The finalists have had an opportunity to have grooming sessions with Sunsilk that has given them exposure to the best makeup application styles, preferences and techniques of beauticians. There is also an opportunity to engage with national level professionals like Kamala Shrestha, Prashant Tamrakar and Rachana Sharma Gurung, and ask them any questions or concerns and learn from them. In addition to training the beauticians, the Sunsilk grooming sessions also provide essential training to the models who will be done up by the beauticians for the finale. The grooming sessions help them to get the professional look and to show their best on the ramp. How will the top three winners be awarded? Firstly, everyone gets an opportunity to experience the World-class Sunsilk Hair Expert. From the competitive point of view, there is a cash prize for the top three winners as well as for five subtitle winners. The prizes are Rs. 50,000, Rs. 25,000 and Rs. 15, 000 for the first, second and third contestants respectively. There is also a Rs. 5,000 cash prize for five subtitle winners. In addition to the cash prize, this event gives the contestants a good platform on which to showcase their skills and gain national recognition while also getting a chance to learn from some of the well-established people in the beauty and glamour industry in Nepal. (Suprasanna Aryal) events Fr!day Issue 126 | 11 July 2012 7

Venue: Lasanaa, Martin Chautari Time: 7:15 pm onwards lasanaa.wordpress.com Venue: House of Music, Thamel Events Index A film directed by Samrath Kharel, House of Music is bringing forward ‘Nhuchhe Sir’ depicts the relationship traditional sound that Nepali bands have THURSDAY The Monsoon Workshop Ratna Park- A Photography between man and his music, between to offer. It is celebrating the month of Climate-Change (Art and Theater) (Miscellaneous) (Miscellaneous) the art and the artist. It is not an Asar with outstanding artists and their Film Show at Lasanaa (Miscellaneous) The Monsoon Workshop academic endeavor, a news report or talents. On 6 July, Re Sa, Neplai eastern Production Oriented Theatre Training SATURDAY (Miscellaneous) a historical documentation of Jyapu classical-fusion band, led by Tabala guru (Miscellaneous) Production Oriented Theatre Training music but an attempt to capture the Nawaraj Gurung will be performing. Ratna Park- A Photography (Miscellaneous) MONDAY passion of man who has for centuries Likewise, 13 July, Rock Sitar, A Nepali (Miscellaneous) Ratna Park- A Photography Production Oriented Theatre Training communicated with the gods through rock-fusion band, led by Sitar maestro, The Monsoon Workshop (Miscellaneous) (Miscellaneous) music. Lasanaa will be showcasing Bijaya Vaidhya (of Sur Sudha fame) will (Miscellaneous) The Monsoon Workshop (Miscellaneous) The Monsoon Workshop (Miscellaneous) this movie, which will be followed be performing. For the past three years by a discussion. Be there to watch House of Music has been focusing on FRIDAY SUNDAY TUESDAY the beautiful movie and join in the promoting live music through frequent Production Oriented Theatre Training Asarai Mainama: A Month Dedicated to Production Oriented Theatre Training discussion session too. events. So all the music enthusiasts do (Miscellaneous) Nepali Music (Music and Parties) (Miscellaneous) come and enjoy the music and support Ratna Park- A Photography Production Oriented Theatre Training The Monsoon Workshop Price: Free the local artists. (Miscellaneous) (Miscellaneous) (Miscellaneous) Ratna Park- A Photography Cover charge: Rs. 300 (with a can of Closing Date: 8 July (Sunday) Tuborg beer) Time: 10 am to 6 pm Venue: Nepal Art Council, Baber Mahal A Night Out 4220735 A photography exhibition titled ‘Ratna for Music and Qs Park’ is up for display at Nepal Art With Naresh Shrestha Council (NAC). A joint venture of Fashion Founder, Just Event two photographers, Rohan Thapa and Lucas Pernin, the pictures depict the Date: 6 July (Friday); Time: 7 pm 3 importance of the only public space onwards; Venue: Hotel Radisson, Bringing People Together available in Kathmandu and its condition 9818765091 Naresh Shrestha aka DJ Knoxx invites all the interested people to today. It also tells the story of the Just Event Pvt. Ltd. is organizing people who visit it and what they think come and enjoy the party that will feature him as the DJ in the a ‘three-in-one’ event in which of it. The 21 stills on display speak for culminating dance party. Ratna Park. Be at the exhibition to people will be entertained through take a look at the condition of one three different shows. Live music What kind of people are you expecting at the event? of the most important landmarks of will be performed by Abhaya and The event itself is a three-in-one program with music, fashion, and a party. Kathmandu. The pictures are also on The Steam Injuns. The concert will So anyone who enjoys one, or all the facets, is welcome to be part of this sale. be followed by a fashion show. The fun and fashionable event. However, since Hotel Radisson Kathmandu is Entrance: Free fashion show is based on summer the venue, we are expecting an excellent crowd. wears where ten well known THE MONSOON female models will walk the ramp What is the main purpose behind organizing the event? WORKSHOP with summer wears designed by The main purpose behind organizing this event is to entertain all the party lovers of K-town where they can have great fun with fashion, live Closing Date: 27 July (Friday) various designers. There will also Time: 3 pm to 6 pm (Wednesdays and music and a DJ session. People will have unlimited fun at this event. We Thursdays); 12 pm to 4 pm (Saturdays be a DJ session by DJ Knoxx for thought of organizing multi-faceted event with the thought that various and Sundays) a dance party that culminates the fun loving people will get to enjoy together under one umbrella. Venue: Sattya, Jawalakhel event. Who all will be involved in the fashion aspect of the event? 5523486, sattya.org Price: Rs. 1000 (including dinner) The designers for the fashion show are Nilima Maden Limbu, and The monsoon workshop, organized students of Vogue Nepal and Lord Buddha (School Of Fashion by The Monsoon Collective, is an Tickets are available at Hotel Technology).The choreographer is Dhiraj Tandukar. (Suprasanna Aryal) opportunity for engineers, artists and Radisson on the same day only. thinkers to come together and organize projects. The workshop will conclude with a public showcase of achievements and projects. The orientation and ‘Fee Drop Off’ is on 29 June (10 am to 5 pm). Featuring twenty hours per week, presentations will be given by organizers and participants in the first hour of class, followed by group work, discussions, and more. Facilitators for the workshop are Prabhas Pokharel and Robert M Ochshorn. Application and more detailed information can be found online at monsooncollective.org. Price: Rs. 2000 for the whole month Production Oriented Theatre Training Opening Date: 24 June (Sunday) Closing Date: 24 August (Friday) Time: 7 am to 9 am Venue: Sarwanam Theatre, Kalikasthan 4438947 / 9841978353/ 9813121034 Ashesh Malla and his team are coming up with a two month production oriented theatre training cum workshop. The training will divulge on every aspect of theatre such as direction, acting, gestures, expressions, dialogue writing and more. After two months of training, the groups will then get a chance to perform a drama of their own in the theatre hall at Sarwanam. All interested participants can join the workshop through registration. Registration forms and other details are available at Sarwanam itself. Fee: Rs. 3000

MUSIC AND PARTIES ASARAI MAINAMA: A MONTH DEDICATED TO NEPALI MUSIC Closing Date: 15 July (Sunday) the competition will have the to the festival of Teej itself and also chance to share the stage with the pictures of the past ten Teej legendary Polish Technical Death Festival, the visitors will also get eget morevents out of your weekends Metal Band “DECAPITATED” an exclusive chance to do their on 8 September. Along with that, Teej shopping under one roof. the winning band will also get to One of their major attractions of celebrate the title with Rs. 50,000 this year’s festival is a Teej fashion cash. The first runner up will show on the last day. For those get Rs. 20,000 cash. Registration willing to put up a stall, contact the mark your forms are available at Nepfest organizers for more details. calendar Office, Sanepa. Regular stall: Rs. 9500/ 4 days Registration Fee: Rs. 5000 events in the next few weeks Food stall: Rs. 10,500/ 4 days MISCELENEOUS International Night Market – II Kids Dance Performance Date: 27 August (Monday) Date: 21 July (Thursday) Time: 4:45 pm onwards Time: 11:15 am onwards Venue: Garden of Dreams, Thamel Venue: Salsa Dance Academy, 4425340 Kathmandu Kora Bhatbhateni 4420564 M.A.A.U.R, an upcoming new boutique in town will be featuring Cycling Challenge 2012 The groups that have been handpicked shoes from many MUSIC AND PARTIES learning Kathak and Freestyle international destinations at a night Date: 21 July (Saturday); Time: 7 am to 3 pm; Venue: Patan Durbar Square Bollywood Dance in the dance market at Garden of Dreams. The Death Feast I classes being done by Salsa Dance shoes on display will compliment 4412508, [email protected],www.facebook.com/kathmandu.kora Date: 14 July (Saturday) Academy will be showcasing their Nepal’s fashion world. Wooden Time: 11:45 am talent on 21 July. The session carved shoes are some of the Venue: Silence Street, Tangal Following the success of the first Kora Cycling Challenge last year, performance will be a short one, samples that will be on display for Kathmandu Kora Cycling Challenge 2012, organised by Socialtours and An event supported by with each dance style group giving the visitors to explore. Talent Inc., will bring together around 100 riders from Nepal and abroad ktmROCKS and Mepal a performance on one song each. to participate in a 50-kilometer challenge around Kathmandu valley, raising Underground, ESOTERIC Entrance: Free FAIR AND EXPO money per kilometer biked for a worthy cause. NEPAL’s “Death Feast I” is a concert featuring only Sub Free Scholarship Career Edufair - 2012 The first Cycling Challenge was also a fundraiser for SAMATA School and Genres of Death Metal. Bands Competition Opening Date: 26 July (Thursday) OCCED orphanage in Kathmandu. Maxim Jones from UK and Shishang that will be performing at the Submission Deadline: 15 August Closing Date: 28 July (Saturday) Lama had taken the challenge and together they raised around Rs. 450,000. concert are Waak Thuu, 11, (Wednesday) Time: 2 pm onwards This time around the money raised will go to upgrade the facilities required The Exorcist, Fall, Nakinjhyaa, Workshop’s Date: 18 October Venue: Fun Park, Bhrikuti Mandap during child birth in Rukum district of Nepal. Riders are to request people Suffocate The Unborn etc. Many (Tuesday) to 27 October more bands will be there to get (Saturday) Good news for all folks. The around them to contribute Rs. 100 for each kilometer they ride. The Kathmandu Post in association contribution is completely voluntary. Willing people should make a pledge your head banging. http://www.thecompellingimage. com/ with Array International is coming at www.tinyurl.com/donor-ktm-kora and name the rider they are pledging Ticket: Rs 160/ per person with Career Edufair 2012. For all the money for. Kathmandu and Dashain Festival those people out there, who are Shuffle Get Tipsy Photo and Multimedia Workshop, still trying to decide a suitable Date: 21 July (Saturday) Cost: Participation is free (Request to raise Rs. 100/ per km) a free competition is open only to career choice for themselves Time: 1 pm tp 12 am all emerging still and multimedia or for students who are willing For rider registration go to www.tinyurl.com/reg-ktm-kora Venue: Tipsy Lounge, Durbar photographers from India, Nepal, to take advice for their further Marg Fundraising target: Rs. 500,000 Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. The studies, this is an opportunity not submissions will be judged by to be missed. If you are ready, so is Panos photographer and TCI the master. Be there and take some instructor, G.M.B. Akash, along good advice. with Corbis Images Photographer and TCI Founder, David Bathgate. From your “Student Area”, you Qs will be able to upload your 12- to 15-image photo-story submission, With Raj Gyawali along with a brief description Founder Director, Socialtours of your submitted work and 3 MStella Events and Shuffle Jerk a short-form of your resume. A Cause Worth Cycling For Productions Present “Shuffle Get To enter, sign up for a free TCI Tipsy”. Dance to your favorite account and enroll on the free Participants in this event may not have a big cup to win at the end of beats from electro to shuffles. scholarship competition course. Different DJs from Kathmandu The winner (there will be only the challenge, but they will have something to rejoice about. After all, will be making music the entire one winner) will be announced winning isn’t everything. Gyawali divulges on the event furthermore. day to give you a good time. on 1 September (Saturday) on Moreover, be ready for a Shuffle the TCI Blog. What arrangements have been made for the participants? Battle too. Top shuffler groups The scholarship does not include Each participant will get a Kathmandu Kora jersey. We have arranged for will be going head to head accommodation during the safety vehicles, safety staff, water and lunch. The participants only have to on a challenge so, expect the workshop. bring in their own bicycles and start cycling. We will take care of the rest. unexpected. Teej Festival Why Rukum? Can you elaborate the need of ‘decent facilities Tickets: Rs 300 (Pre-sales), Rs Opening Date: 23 August for giving birth’ there? 500 (Door) We work with Save the Children’s EVERYONE campaign, which is under (Thursday) the slogan “No Child is Born to Die”. Rukum has only 16 birthing facilities Nepfest 3 Open Band Closing Date: 26 August (Sunday) in the whole district, and most of them are very poorly equipped. We Competition Time: 9 am to 7 pm could have chosen any other district too with similar situations, but Date: 25 August (Saturday) Venue: WTC, DECC, Rukum also needs it, so we are taking it there from this event. Time: 12:45 pm Tripureshwor Venue: Fun Park, Bhrikuti Mandap 4425898 Do you have a certain route mapped out for the cycling? From Patan Durbar Square which places do the participants head? The time has come for all the Teej is approaching ever so The route is all GPS’ed and online at www.everytrail.com if someone metal heads to prove their near and with that comes a searches for Kathmandu Kora. The route has been decided and it will worth. Romanov is coming up long shopping list. To make the head from Patan Durbar Square to Jawalakhel - Dhobighat - Kirtipur - with an opportunity to prove tiresome job easy and fun, the Naikap - Sitapaila - Balaju - Dhapasi - Kopan - Boudha - Pepsi - Gwarko it. Romanov presents NEPFEST 11th Teej Festival is back. With a line of different exhibitions and and will end back at Patan Durbar Square. (Akriti Shilpakar) 3 “AUGUST” Open Band Competition. The winner of stalls, displaying pictures related events Fr!day Issue 126 | 11 July 2012 9

the week that was Fr!day @ The Factory - Chapter 1 Photo Courtesy: ktmsearch.com and The Factory Akriti Shilpakar event reviews of the Kathmandu, 29 June The last Friday of the month of June kick-started the Fr!day @ The Factory events which are to continue for the coming months on every last Friday of each month. The past week event started off from 7:30 p.m. onwards, and gradually the crowd began to pour in. By 9 p.m., the place had started to warm up with people taking to the dance floor when their favorite numbers played. A collaboration of two very youthful brands that exists in Nepal today- ECS Fr!day and The Factory, Fr!day@ The Factory is a monthly event to be held every last Friday of Climate Change – An Exhibition of each month. “By merging these two brands we intend to Kushwaha’s Work create a brand of events and set a benchmark for its target audience by providing the best in terms of the ambiance, Swosti Rajbhandari service, entertainment and excitement. Fr!day@ The Kathmandu, 1 July Factory as we intended to deliver will always be extremely fresh and utterly exciting,” said Binit Shrestha, Consultant for The Factory. As announced, the very first of the Fr!day @ The Factory events was a build up to the Euro Cup final. It was a celebration of the zeal and craze present in the Kathmandu denizens for the Euro Cup tournament. And since, there were no matches that night and Spain and Italy had secured their places in the final, the timing of the event couldn’t have been any better. With the prevalent Euro Cup euphoria, some guests at the event flaunted their face paints as they clubbed till the wee hours in an ambiance crafted aptly to befit the Euro Cup theme. The bar area was done up with the goal post net and footballs, while BPM, NVN and the amazing visuals by cocktails named after the nick names of various teams DJ Kranti certainly gave the guests more added to the theme. than what they came for, and gave them even more reasons to come back to Face Painting, Euro Cup signature cocktails, delectable array next editions of Fr!day@ The of food, banners of teams hanging from the ceiling, heart Factory. “I am enjoying myself a thumping house and commercial sessions by DJ Kranti, Vibe, lot, even though I am not on thee dance floor, my friends are theree burning the floor. Staying back and sipping Azzurri is fun. This is fun a night!” exclaimed Jaya Rai with Italy painted on her left cheek. “Climate change” – a topic which has remained in the limelight for decades and will continue to top the charts as concerning topics. As the clock ticked away, the atmosphere in The Factory steadily started to swing to the groove. While some of the Being alarmed about the hazardous effects of climate change, budding artist, Sunil guests laid back in their chairs, enjoying the Friday night, the Pd Kushwaha, put up a solo exhibition of numerous paintings and three installations others made the most of the dance floor and DJ session. to create awareness. In abstract, semi-abstract and sometimes in impressionistic Congratulations to all the winners of the lucky techniques, playing with colours and textures, Kushwaha, paints series of acrylic draw conducted at The Factory. The winners are But the fun doesn’t end just yet. The last Friday of this paintings of withered, barren branches and trees showing the consequences of entitled to a 1-hour virtual golf game at Putt Putt, month of July will witness another exclusive themed climate change. To heighten the drama, he also has an installation of a corpse, as Civil Mall. Winners are requested to call 98511 event at Factory. Shrestha divulged, “ Our team of creative a metaphor to show the fatal effects, if not controlled in time. In his best work 27326 to book their time slot. experts along with the innovative team of ECS Fr!day are displayed, a series of three paintings, he unfolds in a narrative way how we can get designing the next edition of the Fr!day@ The Factory at engulfed into the black hole if prevention measures against climate change are not 1. Siraj Shrestha 6. Karan Vaidya the moment. What excites us today may not excite us after made in time. 2. Sunny Manandhar 7. Suraj Raj Karki a week, hence Fr!day@ The Factory will always be fresh and exciting. Apart from the new theme and the event The Exhibition was inaugurated by Asif Hussain Memon, Charge d’Affaires, Embassy 3. Puja Singh 8. Shrijit Rajbhandari design, guests will also be entertained with merchandises, of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Present as guests of honour were: reputed artist, gifts, and value added services from both ECS Fr!day and Thankur Prasad Mainali, artist and critic Ramesh Khanal, Mukesh Malla, and other 4. Samir Jung Thapa 9. Kanchan Burathoki The Factory in the coming Fr!day@ The Factory events.” distinguished guests included DK Dhungana, Sunil Sijapati, Hari Kanth Khanal and Fr!day@ The Factory may have ended this month but it will Om Prakash Mahato – the artist’s father. 5. Viswash Modi 10. Amun Thapa be back with a blast again. centerA Fr!day Collectible spread

Rajesh Hamal Abinash Bikram Shah Vinay Shrestha Hari Bansha Acharya

Neelima Bajracharya Nima Rumba

Nima Rumba

Keki Adhikari Jharana Bajracharya Karishma Manandhar Nisha Adhikari Shree Krishna Shrestha

Nischal Basnet Lokesh Bajracharya Dayahang Rai

Reema Bishwokarma Sandeep Ksetry Reecha Sharma

Priyanka Karki enterlet the good times begin tainment

guest writer Nepali Cinema: a 12-year Association Tsering Rhitar Sherpa studied Mass Communication at the Jamia Millia Islamia in Delhi. “The Spirit Doesn’t Come Anymore”, his 1997 documentary film earned him the Best Film Award in Film South Asia and Best Indigenous Filmmaker of the Year at Parnu Anthropological Film Festival, Estonia. Sherpa’s “Mukundo” a feature film in Nepali was Nepal’s Official Entry for Academy Awards (OSCAR) in Best Foreign Language Film Section in 2000. In 2006, he produced and directed a feature – “Karma”. Sherpa is currently completing a film titled HIV 101: HIV and AIDS in Nepal for UNAIDS.

hen I was making the distributors told us that the responsibility – in honoring “Mukundo” in film would never appeal to the their trust and not letting them 2000, I was asked ordinary ‘masses’. Not knowing down. Our films should therefore Wby many if it was how (and whom) to market the be truthful and made with a documentary film. How can film, Mukundo was released integrity. If we do that, then we a feature film be without the to a poor attendance in Nepal. don’t have to listen to rhetoricor mandatory songs and dances? This was before the multiplexes have bitter arguments about the Many of my well-wishers came. need for purely Nepali themes, were bewildered and thought Since then the Nepali cinema and Nepali-ness in Nepali I was crazy making this film has come a long way – now we Cinema.A truthful film from on 35mm film, rather than the see some young filmmakers a Nepali director’s heart will commonly used 16mm, and tackling new thematic concerns, naturally have a Nepali element thus pushing the raw material aesthetic strategies and and Nepali theme. The fact that cost 4 times. They thought that employing digital medium that a Nepali director is making a I would not be able to market characterize their new Nepali film will invariably entail his cut down the production cost trash will also be produced. I the film in Nepal. They were cinema. The bold use of images experiences and expressions. with the digital technology. But argue - so what? There will right. “Mukundo” didn’t last and narrative techniques in In cinema, an identity (Nepali- more importantly, we can take be a natural selection. Trash long in the Nepali theatres, and films like “Loot”, “Shayad”, ness) is more of an internal risks and experiment because it makers will die out natural would have been a commercial “Apabad”, and upcoming films expression than an external is cheaper medium. Because we death – they can make one or disaster had it not been for the like “Highway”, “Visa Girl” image.So this way, new Nepali can take risks and experiment, two films, but cannot survive in finance from NHK (Japan), and and “Goodbye Kathmandu” films will continue to connect we might be able to produce a the long run. But in the process the screenings in international show the huge leap that the with the newly gained audience. masterpiece. So far, we saw a we will find some jewels in the venues and film festivals. At Nepali cinema has taken. The It is encouraging also to surge of bold and interesting crowd. That way digital video that time, the Nepali cinema had more hearteningpart is that see some trend of serious film films that dared to defy the is very democratic – where as taken the role of catering to the the young educatedNepalis criticism is coming up among conventions – all these films traditional style of making film lowest mass and thus devoid of are going to the theaters to the film critics – discriminating are made in digital format. Five is always capital centered. So any intellectual and aesthetic watch these films. This is what good films from the bad ones, years ago, I experimented with with our film industry shifting value. The Nepali press was also is needed to really encourage rather than putting all the this format with my second to digital technology, we see a unanimous in their vehement the making of good Nepali Nepali films in one basket. feature film “Karma”. I found surge of new talents and films, criticism of it, and the urban elite cinema. In the last 10 years, new An intelligent and balanced the digital format so much easier which willmakethe quality of and intelligentsia considered it generation has come up who got criticism by film writers and and economic to work – in terms our cinema better. Some of the below their intellectual appeal, plenty of exposure to media critics would play a crucial role of the crew size, the speed with problems to this right now are and so were never watching – especially film and TV – and in stimulating the industry. which we could set up the shots, the proper infrastructure to Nepali films. In such a setting, have become visually literate. In the recent years, we the freedom to experiment and distribute the digital cinema, “Mukundo” seemed to have a They are able differentiate a saw the emergence of digital improvise while filming. We without the producers losing come a bit too early – because good film from a bad one, and format as the accepted format could never do all these with money in piracy and proper it became difficult to bring they have become the patrons of for making feature films. I find the celluloid film – it would protection of their works. If the intelligentsia (who have the new Nepali cinema. This is a this especially beneficial for the be too expensive! Some argue all these possible loopholes are no trust in Nepali cinema) to very good trend, and I feel that Nepali cinema, as a small film that because of the cheapness covered, I see a great future for come out and watch one, and we,as filmmakers, have a huge industry like ours could always of the digital format, a lot of Nepali cinema. ! Backstage at QFX entertainment Fr!day Issue 126 | 11 July 2012 13

special focus highway Behind The Scenes – In The Reel World

— Mita Hosali ighway” has broken all his ducks in a row so that there planning both before and during barriers – and by this is no scrambling – for resources, the shoot. Having several people we don’t mean box office equipment or people; and to have dedicated to this area is one way Hrecords. By bursting onto a network of distributors and to reduce stress on location – and the international stage beginning sales agents who are trustworthy to ensure that small details are with the Berlin Film Festival and persuaded of the Director’s noticed and fixed.” this February, the first ever abilities. Rauniyar probably has As for post-production, Nepali feature film to make it to many things to say about how Rauniyar has surely realized a world-renowned festival, we he would have liked to work – that no matter how wonderfully have high hopes that “Highway” he would have wanted a more the shoot goes, unless you have will enthrall theatre audiences collaborative approach within a crack team working on post- and festivals and be a turning the photography team; he would production details, a music person point in bringing Nepali cinema have hoped for less difficulties who understands the storyline to the world. Without presuming in dealing with local authorities and the concept, and an editor success or triumph, we are excited when executing location shoots; who is also a dream-weaver of to finally share with the people he would have preferred his sorts when it comes to story- of Nepal a “super movie with generator not being stolen; he telling, the best film concept can excellent actors”, as anointed by would have liked the sound side end up in a disappointing final the Berliner Zeitung newspaper, of things to have gone more product. When “Highway” opens on 20 July whence the film had its world smoothly; and he hardly have In one scene, the character (Srawan 5), like proud parents, we premiere with resounding minded being able to delegate Pratiek, played by Eelum Dixit, will feel the euphoria, and not a little appreciation from the public and to a bigger, more experienced says: “What do you think this critics alike. production and post-production is – child’s play?” He might as anxiety, that comes with giving birth. Making a movie is a relentless crew. well have been mouthing these journey of discovery, as all who Rauniyar would agree that words as a metaphor for the she, like so many others, thought than the Director’s – is that the were involved realized in the planning for a film is something unstated Herculean task that the exciting buzz created by film hopefully created a platform aftermath of an exhausting that should be carefully thought the “Highway” film project the Berlin Film Festival was for them to pursue other projects process on location. Once through. Rushing into production, was. Some 48 days of location contagious. Highway was an in the arts. Screenwriter Avinash done, with the cast and crew without adequate prepping, can shooting, many of them on the eye-opener in another sense; Bikram Shah went on to complete recuperating, the Director and simply impose additional stress road, simulating the bus journey Rauniyar, who has an avowed his short film “Ma Khushi Chhu” his editor begin to work on what on the team – and leave some that the central characters preference for the improvisational which was screened at the Pusan often seems like the interminable obvious details overlooked. One actually undertook in the film, approach to acting, chose to Film Festival in 2011. Reecha process of online editing, offline of the areas that fall victim to were plagued by obstacles. populate Highway’s cast with Sharma and Vinay Shrestha editing, mixing, dubbing, titles, the race to the location shoot Not surprising, there were theatre actors. Saugat Malla, have collaborated with CG subtitles and colour correction, finish line is thinking about each disagreements within the team – Rajan Khatiwada and Asha Entertainment as co-producers to name just a few steps of what scene and planning carefully. and inevitable miscommunication. Magarati with many years of on a film by emerging Nepali has to happen before the editing Alok Adhikari, who served But as actress Reecha Sharma theatre experience between them, director Prachanda Shrestha is “locked” and the film is ready to as a Director’s Assistant on has said, “I really wanted to work demonstrated the advantages (“Visa Girl”). Dayahang Rai, be shared for viewing with those “Highway” and who has recently with Deepakdai, and I was happy of showcasing the talents of Karma and Saugat Malla have who are key to the marketing and completed work on another film when he came up with the role of artists who can rise equally to the gone on to make the blockbuster sales process. From the initial and has made a documentary of Kavita. He let me interpret her as challenge of the stage and the “Loot” with Nischal Basnet and concept to realization can take his own, is a rookie when it comes I saw fit, and never asked me to silver screen. some are now in the middle of well over a year, or even longer. to the world of feature films. Yet do anything that didn’t suit the What is wonderful for another film project “Chhadke”. In the ideal world, the he says, “The Art Department role.” She wishes the film would Highway’s creators – and this Bhumika Shrestha and Rabindra Director would surely like to have has to do a huge amount of pre- have been released already as includes so many names other Mishra, notwithstanding successful careers and lives outside the world of acting, were delighted with this dip in the world of cinema. Newcomers to Nepali cinema like Eelum Dixit, Sandeep Chhetri and Shristi Ghimire have also collaborated on a film project. The “Highway” experience has served to whet the appetite of a young group who see the need to invest ideas, money and talent in a new wave of Nepali cinema. First-time Executive Producers Sameer and Lonim Dixit eagerly signed up to invest in Rauniyar’s dream; Sameer is candid about the process being tough, confusing and oft- frustrating. When I joined them as Executive Producer, he chuckled: “Now you are in this with us, Mita, for better or for worse!” In Nepal, where Producers are often seen as rapacious and not entirely honourable, we are not looking to just recoup an investment. We are vested in Highway making an impact, in audiences sitting up and being stirred by the film, as well as being entertained. When “Highway” opens on 20 July (Srawan 5), like proud parents, we will feel the euphoria, and not a little anxiety, that comes with giving birth. ! letenter the good times begin tainment

Swapnil Acharya is a graphic designer, now working full time as publicity guest designer for Nepali films. His recent works include posters writer for “Loot”, “Highway”, The Story in Short “Saayad” and “Visa Girl”.

film director has two has come into filmmaking. With printing presses in India. Thus, that stepped into the scene Film posters have come a long hours to tell a story. A the wave of “new age cinema” there were the usual explosions, post “Loot”, “Highway” and way from hand-drawn canvases screenwriter has 100- that drifted into Nepal a few angry heroes, weeping heroines, “Saayad” – has laid their trust to digital billboards. With Aish pages. But a film years ago, film posters too have large fiery title graphics etc. upon new concepts in film access to Internet promotion poster designer has only 0.5 significantly transformed to on the posters there usually poster designs that have broken and other forms of publicity, seconds to tell a story – and match the style and content of conveyed the message poorly the traditional boundaries and one would have imagined that effectively. It has to capture the the film targeted primarily at or the people were just too started a new trend. Today, the glory or significance of excitement and promise of the young urban audiences. As the lazy to notice them. Films like filmmakers have become very printed posters might do down. film, and must be able to tell far films became more technically “Sano Sansar” and “Kagbeni” conscious about the posters But I don’t see that happening more things than an entire film sound and visually appealing, the were the brave ones that dared –a trend of online first-look soon anyways because film – all at just one look. Regarded same spirit had to reflect on the to establish new trend of film launch or formal parties where posters will continue to serve as one of the major asset of film posters. Thus came in the poster design in the market. Since the posters of Nepali films as primary medium of publicity. film publicity, a film poster is film poster revolution, as I like then, though a set of traditional are released are springing up. What might decline is the much more than just photos to call it – that changed the way filmmakers have still stayed with This itself is a very positive volume of posters being pasted of the actors and names of the people looked at and perceived the explosions and angry heroes, sign for poster design in Nepali on the walls, because of access technicians – it is a device to film posters. there has evolved a different film industry. Today the angry to digital promotions and invoke the urge in the minds of The film posters designed school of film poster design that heroes and pretty heroines have government’s restrictions to audience to come and watch a in Nepal even till a decade ago has been constantly coming up disappeared from the posters – paste them on the walls – but film. were highly influenced by those with new, exciting and appealing leaving doors open to infinite film posters will remain with The way film posters are designed in India. The graphic film posters. possibilities of exploration films, and continue to excite designed has changed along artists who designed them too Fortunately, the new “breed” of art and creativity on film and enthrall the audience week with the transformation that were either trained or worked in of filmmakers – the ones posters . after week. ! posters speak

Movies at QFX

Bol bachchan Release date : 6 July Abbas Ali (Abhishek Bachchan) is new to Ranakpur. In an attempt to save a child, he breaks open the lock of an ancestral temple. On being Cocktail asked his name, Abbas’s friend Release date : 13 July comes out with a fake name, The Amazing Director : Homi Adajania Spiderman as it would create a rage if villagers came to know that Gautam is an Release date : 29 June the lock of a temple had incorrigible flirt, who Peter is trying to figure been broken by a Muslim. runs after every girl he out who he is and how From here starts a series of sees. Meera is a pretty he got to be the person cover-ups, goof-ups and comic girl with desi values and he is today, along with situations where to cover one attire, who comes to finding his way with his first lie, Abbas starts padding up London from Delhi for high school crush, Gwen with a bigger lie. a fresh start. Veronica is a spoiled bombshell Stacy. The discovery of a Cast: Abhisekh Bachchan, Ajay mysterious briefcase that Devgan, Asin thottumkal, Prachi who loves partying belonged to his father, leads Desai, Asrani, Tusshar Kapoor and drinking. Though a quest to understanding Director: Rohit Shetty different, these three are his parents’ disappearance. perfect friends staying It leads him directly to under one roof until Oscorp and the lab of Dr friendship becomes Curt Connors, his father’s confusing, and love former partner and his becomes complicated. alter-ego, The Lizard. Cast Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Cast : Andrew Garfield, Emma Padukone, Diana Penty, Stone, Rhys Fans Dimple Kapadia, Boman Irani Director: Marc Webb Director: Homi Adajania hallofframe

1 2 1 4 Glory to Awaaz at AFK 22 June, Alliance Française After a brief monsoon shower on a late Friday afternoon, a band competition was successfully held within the premises of the Alliance Française, in front of an audience consisting of music enthusiasts, musicians, the members of AFK and the media. Four bands competed for the winner’s title amongst which Aawaz stood out as the winner of the competition. As the winners, Awaz got an opportunity to open for the internationally acclaimed NoJazz on 28 June, and the band will also get an opportunity to have a record recorded in a professional studio. Judging the bands were Raju Maharjan from 2 Kutumba, Hari Maharjan from Hari Maharjan’s Project and Sanjay Shrestha from 1974 AD. “It’s good to see young musicians step up to perform 3 4 in front of us. There is a good possibility of them making it big if they give continuity to their hard work.” said Shrestha, the drummer of 1974 AD. AFK’s week long music festivity was initiated from the Khulla Manch on 21 June and came to an end on 28 June with the NoJazz concert. 1. Pavit Maharjan 2. Hari Maharjan 3. Sanjay Shrestha 4. Raju Maharjan

3

Rekha Shah’s Step into Modern Pop – “Aakriti” 29 June, Attic Bar The musical diva, Rekha Shah, launched her new album “Aakriti” as her step into a new genre. The folk singer has experimented with modern pop in her third album. During Astha Tamang Maskey’s “Ma Ek the release of the album at The Attic Bar in Durbar Marg this Friday, Shah expressed no apprehensions for being experimental with a new genre this time. Sapana” Launched The album was launched in the presence of musicians, members of Nepali film fraternity 24 June, Rastriya Naach Ghar and representatives of various media houses. “Aakriti” consists of seven songs which were written by lyricist Bhupendra Khadka. The music to the songs was given by musician Hari A crowd of enthusiastic music lovers were awestruck when they got to Lamsal. Talking about the album, Shah said, “The album is the result of the joint efforts listen to Kutumba , Jindabaad and Astha Tamang Maskey on Sunday. The put forth by the whole team and this is an experiment for me. I hope our efforts will pay official launch of “Ma Ek Sapana”, Astha’s new album was done at the event. dhime off in the end.” Congratulating the singer on her new album, journalist and philanthropist The event also saw a solo performance on the by Indira. Rabindra Mishra praised Shah’s effort. Kutumba pleased the audience with their impressive numbers that brought A video of the song ‘Timro Haat Samai’ from the same album was screened during the melodies from across Nepal’s various communities to the Rashtriya Naach launch program. The video is expected to hit the television stations after the final touch- Ghar hall. Maskey performed her songs, “Ma Ek Sapana”, “Harek Saas Sita”, ups are complete. “Jhuto Satya”, “Khaali”, “Bhana”, “Sabai Thik Huncha”, and “Muskuraye”. The formal launch of the album “Ma Ek Sapana” was made on the stage the title 1. Rabindra Mishra, Rekha Shah and Yadav Kharel 2. Bhupendra Khadka 3. Pradip Joshi track of the same name playing in the background. Her music video, “Khula 4. Hemant Rana 5. Nhyoo Bajracharya 6. Hari Lamsal Aakash” was also screened during the program, which the audience enjoyed equally. Likewise, Jindabaad also played their popular numbers. The event saw Kutumba, Jindabaad and Maskey collaborate on various numbers. The event culminated with Maskey’s “Gotta Be Love” which was a melodious end to the album launch. 2 1. Sunny Tuladhar 2. Rajan Shrestha 3. Kiran Nepali 4. Astha Tamang Maskey

1

3 4 5 6 bamarkets & launcheszaar

models of both Linea and Punto are which also included 10 percent discount Rangoli Easy Clean. On the purchase Fiat 2012 models roll loaded with exciting and innovative Honda winners on spare parts, 20 free servicings, and of every 20 litres of Weathercoat All features which are set to delight its scratch card with cash prize from Rs. Guard the consumer gets an umbrella into town customers. The 2012 models have announced 4,000 to Rs. 100,000. and with every 30 litres of Rangoli Easy Batas Brother Motors, the sole set new standards with a variety of Syakar Trading Company Pvt. Ltd. Clean the consumer gets a raincoat distributor of Fiat in Nepal has features in terms of safety, comfort, organized a press conference in DECC, The name of the winner are: for free. introduced the 2012 models of Punto ride and handling. The newly launched UWTC Building, Tripureshwore on 27 Ashok Malik, Janakpur Bill no. and Linea in Nepal. Nepali customers automobiles are one of the most unique June to announce the name of the lucky 445 The offer is valid from 1 July till 16 now have the options of buying Fiat models in terms of styling, safety, and winner of “Honda 2069 Sun Lav offer” Meg Bahadur Shah, Nepalgunj Bill No. August, or till stocks last. The scheme is Linea 1.3 Advanced Multijet Diesel and low pollution levels available in Nepal. via lucky draw, amongst representatives 1214 from limited dealers in Nepal and the 1.4 Fire Petrol along with FIAT Grande from different media houses. Three Bikram Yadav, Janakpur Bill No. 393 consumers can receive the gifts from Punto 1.2 Fire Petrol and 1.3 Multijet Contact: Batas Brothers Motors, winners of the lucky draw received 69 the dealers at the time of purchase. Diesel. The Active and Dynamic, on Gairidhara Chowk, 01-4004744 grams gold each, as part of the scheme, Pizza Hut launches “Cheesy Bites” Samsung Galaxy SIII Pizza Hut is now serving the is out international best seller –‘Cheesy Bites’. The new pizza, with 22 mozzarella cheese-filled bites covered with garlic butter and Italian seasoning come in 4 non-vegetarian options and 5 vegetarian options. The non-vegetarian options are Corn ‘n’ Chicken, Spicy Chicken, Chicken Sizzle and Peppy O Chicken and the vegetarian options include Spanish Delight, Fiery Masala Magic, Rustica, Mediterranean Delight and Paneer Bonanza. The pizza is available International Marketing Services Pvt. in personal and medium size and Ltd, an authorized national distributor an upgrade of existing pan pizzas to for Samsung Mobile in Nepal, after Cheesy Bites is also available. Along the globally successful Galaxy S II and with Cheeesy bites, Pizza Hut has Galaxy Note announced the launch also introduced Paneer Quesadilla of Samsung Galaxy SIII, a flagship and beverages -Daiquiri, Strawberry Smartphone device from Samsung Romance, Caribbean Choco Shake, Mobiles, at Park Village Budhanilkantha Mango Mint Margarita and Mocha Cold on 27 June. Consumers can avail Coffee. the new phone through Ncell’s Pro Premium service on 12 months Cheesy Bites Price: starting from Rs. instalment at Rs. 6499 per month 214 including all taxes. Contact: Pizza Hut, Durbar Marg, 01- The new phone features a 4.8 inches 4226287 wide HD Super AMOLED screen with 1.4GHZ quad-core Exynos processor. The smart phone has an 8MP camera, Raincoats and front camera 1.9MP sensor and a capacity to store 16GB inbuilt storage, umbrellas with expandable up-to 64GB. Galaxy SIII comes with some brand new features Berger Paint that includes, Group cast, Share shot, Berger Jenson & Nicholson (Nepal) Pvt. S-beam, S-voice, Smart stay, Burst stay, Ltd. has introduced ‘Berger SimeSime’ Burst shot and Pop up play. for the monsoon season. The offer is valid on two products, namely Berger Contact: Kamaladi, 01-4441584, Weathercoat All Guard and Berger 4428378

D.A.O. Lalitpur Regd. No.77-066/67 ECS Media Pvt. Ltd, Kupondole, Lalitpur, Nepal. 5011571. No. 126 11 July 2012

Publisher: ECS MEDIA PVT. LTD. Editor: SUNIL RAJ SHRESTHA Sr. Manager, Editorial & Marketing: NEERAZ KOIRALA Director, Editorial & Marketing: NRIPENDRA KARMACHARYA Asst. Editor: SRISHTI RL SHAH Sr. Manager, Editorial & Marketing: SUDEEP SHAKYA Editorial Coordinator: EREN SHRESTHA Sr. Manager, Business Planning & Development: RUPESH Inhouse Writers: AKRITI SHILPAKAR SHAKYA Editorial Secretary: PRAGYA POKHREL Manager, Editorial & Promotions: NILADRI S. PARIAL Assistant Design Executive: ANJAN ALE Sr. Photographer: DASH B. MAHARJAN Color Separation: Photographer: UMESH BASNET, YOGENDRA CTP Nepal Pvt. Ltd, HATTIBAN, MAHARJAN 525.0466, 525.0468 Head, Business Development: BIJENDRA PRADHAN, Printing: Jagadamba Press, Hattiban, ANGIRAS MANANDHAR 525.0017/18/19 Sr Executive, Business Development: Distributor: Kasthamandap Distribution SACHIN TAMRAKAR Pvt. Ltd. 424.7241 Assistant Executive, Business Development: NIRBHEEK DISCLAIMER SUBEDI Details of the event listings are accurate as per information Assistants, Business Development: received before the date the weekly goes for printing. Fr!day is BABISH MAHARJAN, BIVEK RAJKARNIKAR, SAMAR not responsible for any changes. MANANDHAR, CHAND SINGH Columnists are entitled to their own views and opinions. They do Ad Enquiries: [email protected] not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of ECS Media and Sr. Subscription & Distribution Executive: the organizaton cannot be held liable for the same. Readers are BIKRAM SHRESTHA encouraged to write to us at [email protected] Promotions & PR Executive: ATULYA ACHARYA Our sister publications gourfor the adventurous palatemet

star diets A fan of the high-fiber diet, Keki Adhikari prefers to avoid eating out. “High on fiber ensures a healthy digestive system and reduces the risk of developing conditions such as heart diseases and high cholesterol,” Adhikari informs. The Food Act A fibrous meal brings with it all the other nutrients as it includes ingredients like fruits, This week, it’s only fit that we look at gourmet vegetables and pulses. Adhikari starts her day with milk and bread. from a ‘starry’ perspective. Some of our favorite She eats steamed vegetables most of the time stars share their preferences in food. and capsicum is her absolute favorite – an ingredient that she ensures she includes in her — Mannat Shrestha meals. On enquiring about one dish she cannot resist, she informs it is her mother’s secret salad It’s needless to mention that actors have a hectic lifestyle. Mostly, recipe that includes a simple mix of capsicum, their days are caught in a frenzy of shooting schedules or promotional tomatoes, onions and vegetables, but the trick is events. Balancing a healthy diet to stay fit is their work’s demand; in the dressing. however, an occasional diet tailored for a movie’s character can dictate their food regime. Four actors share their food-favorites and dietary regimes while divulging what they deem to be a healthy diet. Priyanka Karki starts with a confession, “I consider myself Raj Ballav a very bad eater. Koirala believes But, yes, I’m very that a balanced concerned about diet suits all: my diet.” She skips “You need to eat breakfast and mostly what gives your doesn’t eat proper body the required lunch. The three- nourishment. Every hourly diet is ideal, nutrient has a she feels – small purpose, so your portions of a variety body needs all types of foods throughout of food.” Green the day. “I’m not one vegetables, beans, of those people who and white meat are starve themselves an essential part of to stay slim,” she his meals. “Our typical Nepali meal of promptly adds. But daal-bhat-tarkari is ideal as it includes all she has a simple the essential nutrients.” he shares, adding mantra – “I believe that he makes sure he checks his carbohydrate intake though, and thus prefers roti to rice. But, his all- even if you feel like time-favorite is paani-roti. you overate, you can simply work out the For Koirala, lunch is the most important meal. Cereal and a glass of juice comprise his breakfast, but he next day or balance mostly skips to lunch. When his work makes his day hectic and he hasn’t eaten well, he makes sure he your next meal in takes supplements. After a busy day, he treats his exhaustion with a glass of red wine or even a shot or accordance.” two of whiskey. “It helps me relax,” he shares. Among cuisines, she loves Japanese – healthy and flavorsome. California rolls are her favorite. These inside out sushi rolls are balanced with carbohydrate, sodium, omega-3 and fiber. “I can eat sushi every day,” she adds. Reecha Sharma has had to adjust her weight according to her roles in movies. For “Highway” she was 60 kilograms and for “Visa Girl” she had to lose Tandoori Fish Gulnar Rs 300++ eight kilograms. “I’m a foodie but when it comes to losing weight, I follow my routine very strictly.” Sharma Read shares. She starts her day with lukewarm water and honey, and eats a full daal-bhaat-tarkari-achar meal in the morning. Whenever possible she eats seasonal fruits; gauva, plum, peach, grapes – all her favorites. One exception: “I don’t like mangoes - too sweet Degaa Resto-Lounge Every Thursday for me.” Kumaripati (Old Campion Building) Tel: 9849136479 She prefers to skip dinner or limits the last meal to roti and saag, or just barley biscuits. She is quick to point out her dislikes, “I hate dairy products with the exception of yogurt.” Sharma loves

salads and is fond of making salads as well. Cesar Salad with some bacon and chicken thrown in is her favorite. gourmet Fr!day Issue 126 | 11 July 2012 19

celebrity picks Where the Stars Dine You might like them, you might not, but one thing is for sure – you cannot ignore them. With Kathmandu being the tinsel town, you may have spotted some of the stars of the film world. In case, you haven’t been lucky lately – here’s your chance to be star- struck. This week, we bring to you restaurants and eateries, which some of our movie celebrities frequent.

— Akriti Shilpakar

Sandeep Kshetry @ Nanglo Bakery Cafe Shree Krishna Shrestha @ Indreni Food Land (Jawalakhel) The yesteryear star still has his charms intact. Busy A multi-faceted person, Kshetry is well-known as a talented with the opening of his hotel, the actor shares the actor but what many don’t know is that he is an educator eat-out place he frequents the most. Located at too. Busy teaching at different colleges in town, Kshetry is Central Baneshwor, Indreni Food Land is housed in also pretty occupied with the release of his much awaited Indreni Complex. He said, “I assure you that once movie “Highway”. With an active schedule, he mostly eats you try the momos there, you will only come back out. However, being a spontaneous personality, he never for more.” Indreni is as spacious as it gets. The part sticks to a certain place. But one place that he frequents lounge, part restaurant eatery is dominated by soft, often is Nanglo Bakery Cafe at Jawalakhel. He loves the pale yellow hues. The friendly staff members of place, the food and the people there. He has been going the restaurant, is what persuades Shrestha to visit there for so long now that he even understands the sign Indreni often. By often he means at least once a day, language and can use it well enough to place most of the especially during the evening. orders and communicate with the waiters there with impaired hearing. This has made him a favorite there and he is greeted like family rather than a customer! When there, he will often be seen devouring delicious dumplings and Reema Biswhokarma @ Just Baked chips chilly. One glance at her and you might think she follows a hardcore diet, but she does not. She cannot tolerate spicy food, but sweet delicacies are her weakness. This fact reflects in her pick as well - Just Baked. Located at Nisha Adhikari @ Attic Bar Old Baneshwor, it is near the “Swor”- and “Visa Girl”- She is a big foodie, but she won’t starrer’s home, and it is one reason why she is there let her indulgence turn to regrets. at least once a day. The place is small but clean and Adhikari works out hard to sweat peaceful. During winter, she loves to have their special the earned-calories and keep herself Darjeeling tea. On other occasions, she thoroughly in shape. That way she can enjoy enjoys their momo which comes with a special soup. all sorts of cuisines, from local to She recommends anyone visiting Just Baked for the global, and not worry about her first time to ‘‘...start with the momo or the soup. Then waistline. She can’t have enough of you can try some of my favorites – the club sandwich sushi, momo and sweet confection. and white forest cake.” To satiate her cravings, she has places that specializes in each of them. But when it comes to having fun with her friends, Attic is her holy Jharana Bajracharya @ Tushita ground. She loves the mushroom flambé there. For those who are new here, she suggests She loves to eat, but is not a very big the sukuti chiura, bacon wrapped potatoes and momos as the must-haves. The familiarity foodie. A vegetarian, Bajracharya enjoys of the place and the people brings her back to Attic all the time. Wednesday - Open Mike Japanese cuisine and has a few restaurants Session, is her favorite day to hangout there. So, on one of these Wednesdays, make Attic she visits regularly for the cuisine. your destination. However, she is often found sipping a cup of coffee with her friends at Tushita, situated at Lazimpat. She is fond of the ambience there, which is subtle with no loud elements. The place has a warm Vinay Shrestha @ Vootoo feel to it, with the ample garden and the wooden ceilings. Although there is no Currently involved in the promotions particular time or day for her to visit the eatery, whenever she is around Lazimpat, she is of his next movie “Visa Girl”, Shrestha here and whenever she is here, she has to have the veg-momos. You never know, when you’ll spends most of his time outside his see her at the big window, with that lovely smile on her face. house. Although he loves home-cooked food, his work calls him to have meals outside and lately he has been eating Hari Bansha Acharya @ out a lot at Vootoo. The Newari style Bricks Cafe dumplings seem to be Shrestha’s favorite dish at the restaurant. He shares, “I am a Hari Bansha Acharya is fonder of eating die- home-cooked meals than eating out. However, his busy schedule keeps him hard fan of the momos away from home most of the time. there.” Baji set is another A handful of eateries in town come favorite at the eatery. under his ‘favorites’ list, but lately he He frequents Vootoo at has a soft spot for Bricks Cafe, situated least twice or thrice a week, especially at Kupondole. The fact that Bricks is during evenings. The warm welcome owned by his son, Mohit Acharya is one that he receives from the staffs and of the many reasons for his frequent the owners works as a magnetic visits here. But most of all, it is the charm. Located at Lazimpat, the laid-back ambience is another ambience and impressive element at the good food Vootoo for the actor. Thus, they serve. if you would like to Initially an ‘accidentally’ bump old, Nepali into Shrestha, house, the Vootoo is a restaurant has good place gone through to be at. renovation, however the changes are few. It still has its original essence in place and it’s ambience is what Acharya rejoices here the most. The veteran actor loves Firewood pizza and chicken momo amidst the wide range of cuisines that the menu covers. highspiritsfor the love of drinking

In my college days I used to drink chhyang. Wee Spirited Stories used to sneak out of the hostel and I was one of the best ‘pipe climbers’. One day we got Favorite alcoholic concoctions from our favorite a bit too drunk and we were using the usual pipe-way to sneak back into the hostel when I stars! Four different preferences and spirited saw the superintendent looking right at me. I memories from four silver screen actors. was so drunk that I actually smiled and asked, “Hello, may I come in?” — Eloise Dussably and Mannat Shrestha During those good ole’ days, there were very few bars in town. I remember the Park Hotel, which was an affordable one. Then there was I’m from a Newar family, which means I was Royal Hotel. introduced to alcohol very early on through These days, seven months of the year are ‘dry days’, so to say, along family occasions and festivals. The real drinkingng with a strict vegetarian diet. The other five months that I do drink are incident started when I was in the 12th grade.e. I drink occasionally, and elements limited to my two favorites – whiskey and aila. I like my whiskey with It was during the Dashain festival, we were allall like the weather, the situation chilled water. I prefer Johnny Walker’s Black Label. Over the years, I have going out for deusi, I had two glasses of beerr and the people I’m with dictate developed a taste for good, traditional, homemade aila. I do not like the and I was already drunk! I wouldn’t go into allall my choice of spirit. Usually I go marketed ones; I drink only the traditionally made fine aila. I’m extremely the drunken incidents and their details (he sayssays for a smooth Scotch, or on a hot particular. Four pieces of haku choila always accompany my aila. Whiskey with a mischievous smile). day chilled beer works best. I’m is actually my second preference. About preferences, I like whiskey on the rocksocks not much of a cocktail person, Nir Shah with a lot of ice, on most occasions it is Signaturet re but there are two specific or VAT 69. Occasionally I go for beer, and I prefer Tuborg to other favourites which are ironically brands. I enjoy experimenting with cocktails; I’ve tried my hand at vodka based: Mojito, and Martini Long Island Ice Tea and Rusty Nails. Recently I tried making fresh fruit “shaken not stirred” – James To be very honest I’m not much of a drinker. cocktails for summer like watermelon Daiquiri. Bond style! I usually drink alcohol when I’m invited to a Raymond Das Shrestha As a musician, I don’t need to party. But if I have to choose a favourite, it drink to compose songs, but I would be beer. I like the taste of it and I just don’t exclude it specifically either. can’t drink strong alcohol. Watermelon Daiquiri There are times when I isolate When I’m travelling, I always try the local myself in a room with a glass of beers. Most countries have their own variety Ingredients Scotch and my guitar, and my and it’s nice to discover their taste. In the 2 cups chopped watermelon wife instantly understands that United States, I drink Budweiser. When I 6 tablespoons light rum I’m not to be disturbed. went to France, of course, I tried the famous 2 teaspoons sugar Hailing from a Tamang family, French wines. One thing is true their wines 1/4 cup lime juice are really good! Some lime zest alcohol is an intrinsic part of 2 small watermelon slices our traditions. On all special (On enquiring how heÊd play a drunken character) occasions, we have a bit of Acting is my job so a drunken character is just homemade alcohol. So my another character for me. But I must say it is Preparation favourite spirit would actually be pretty fun! I get to loosen up a bit and walk Puree watermelon in a food processor and strain it into the bowl. a nostalgic one – my mother’s around with booze in my hand – it’s totally Put in a Largeice-filled cocktail shaker and add rum, sugar, lime juice, preparation of chhyang warmed not me, so pretending is fun. and zest. Cover, shake, and strain into 2 small tumblers. Garnish with with a hint of ghyu in winter. watermelon slices. Bhuwan KC Nima Rumba