Bollywood luminary Nawazuddin Siddiqui landed in Kathmandu on a serene Saturday afternoon, much to the enthusiasm of an awaiting crowd of devoted fans. The actor, who has a string of notable accomplishments in Indian cinema, was in the vibrant capital of Nepal to attend the premiere of “Shambhala,” a Nepali film which has garnered international attention with its selection for the Berlin Film Festival.
“Shambhala,” directed by Min Bahadur Bham, intricately weaves the tale of an expectant mother from the highlands, who sets off on a profound journey with her husband’s younger brother to search for her missing husband. The film’s heart-wrenching storyline unfolds amidst the breathtaking altitudes of 4,200 to 6,000 meters in the Dolpa region of Karnali, Nepal, adding a layer of raw authenticity and natural beauty to the narrative.
Upon his arrival at the bustling airport terminal, Siddiqui was met with waves of affection from his admirers, underscoring his widespread popularity that transcends borders. In an interview with ANI, Siddiqui expressed his excitement, “I am here for the celebration of our movie called Shambhala. I am here for maybe two or three days.” During his brief stay, Siddiqui plans to soak in the cultural and natural splendor of Kathmandu. “Yes, of course, Nepal is a beautiful country. Since I am here in Kathmandu, I will see all the sights,” he added.
The much-anticipated premiere is set for Sunday, with Siddiqui joining the cast and crew to celebrate what has already been a landmark achievement for Nepali cinema. “Shambhala” has the distinction of being the first Nepali movie to be selected for the prestigious Berlin Film Festival, a testament to its powerful storytelling and cinematic excellence. Furthermore, the film’s lead actress, Thinley Lhamo, has earned significant recognition, winning the Boccalino d’Oro Prize at the Locarno Film Festival, thereby adding another feather to the movie’s cap.
In addition to attending the premiere, Siddiqui’s trip is a confluence of professional curiosity and personal connection. He had expressed his desire to see the film during an earlier meeting with Bham at a film festival, where conversations about potential future collaborations were sparked. This connection emphasizes the cross-cultural exchange and the bridging of cinematic artistry between India and Nepal.
Min Bahadur Bham, the director of “Shambhala,” was present at the airport to welcome Siddiqui and his entourage, who had made the journey from Mumbai.
. The airport scene was nothing short of a grand welcome; fans thronged the terminal, eagerly seeking photographs and autographs from the actor. One particular fan, Deepika Thapa, managed to hand over a red rose to Siddiqui, sharing her exhilaration, “It was such a blessing. My friends and I had been waiting since morning. Meeting him was a ‘wow’ feeling. It was indeed a grand welcome.”
Nawazuddin Siddiqui, at the age of 50, boasts an illustrious career with an impressive filmography. He has starred in critically acclaimed Bollywood films such as “Black Friday” (2004), “New York” (2009), “Peepli Live” (2010), “Kahani” (2012), and the iconic “Gangs of Wasseypur” series (2012). Furthermore, Siddiqui stands out as the only actor with eight films officially selected and screened at the esteemed Cannes Film Festival. His international acclaim extends to television with starring roles in two Emmy-nominated series, “Sacred Games” (2019) and “McMafia” directed by James Watkins.
While “Shambhala” is an artistic endeavor that showcases the rich cultural tapestry and rugged landscapes of Nepal, the film also underscores the collaborative spirit between artists across borders. The story, driven by themes of perseverance, familial bonds, and the quest for loved ones, is a poignant reflection of the human experience, brought to life by the breathtaking terrains of Dolpa, Karnali. Scheduled for a broader public release in Nepal on September 13, 2024, “Shambhala” is poised to make a significant impact both locally and internationally.
This captivating tale of a highlander woman’s journey stands testament to the universal language of cinema, reinforcing the fact that great storytelling transcends geographical boundaries. Through “Shambhala,” both Min Bahadur Bham and Nawazuddin Siddiqui have contributed to an evolving narrative that connects hearts and resonates with audiences worldwide.
Siddiqui’s involvement and presence at the film’s premiere not only underscore the importance of international support for regional cinema but also symbolize a harmonious blend of two filmmaking legacies converging to celebrate a shared passion for storytelling. As “Shambhala” continues its journey from the high altitudes of Nepal to the prestigious screens of international film festivals, it carries with it the dreams, hopes, and aspirations of those who brought it to life.
