Nepali cinema is evolving, and one of the key figures leading this transformation is Sharmila Pandey. Known for her bold storytelling and diverse filmography, she has now achieved another milestone—becoming the second producer in Nepal to create an Indo-Nepali project with her dark thriller Parastree. This groundbreaking collaboration is a testament to her vision of expanding Nepali cinema beyond borders and bringing it to a larger, international audience. A Historic Indo-Nepali Collaboration Pandey has always believed in pushing boundaries, and Parastree stands as a testament to her ambition. By collaborating with Indian talent—both in front of and behind the camera—she has created a film that seamlessly blends the unique storytelling elements of both industries. The Indo-Nepali partnership has not only elevated the technical aspects of Parastree but has also allowed it to reach a much broader audience across South Asia.
This project has been more than just a film for Mrs. Pandey; it has been a step toward strengthening the cinematic ties between Nepal and India. With India’s vast experience in filmmaking and Nepal’s rich cultural narratives, this collaboration showcases the potential of cross-border productions in bringing unique, high-quality stories to life.
Q&A: The Making of an Indo-Nepali Film
Q: What inspired you to take on an Indo-Nepali collaboration for Parastree?
A: I’ve always wanted to take Nepali cinema to the next level. India has one of the biggest film industries in the world, and by collaborating with their talent, we can learn, innovate, and create films that are competitive on a larger scale. AF felt like the perfect project to make that leap.
Q: What challenges did you face while working on a cross-border production?
A: The biggest challenge was blending two different filmmaking styles while maintaining the essence of the story. Language, production logistics, and cultural differences also required careful navigation. But in the end, the creative synergy made it all worthwhile.
Q: How do you think Indo-Nepali collaborations can benefit the Nepali film industry?
A: Such collaborations open doors to better distribution, bigger budgets, and international expertise. They also help Nepali cinema gain recognition in larger markets. We have amazing stories to tell, and working with Indian filmmakers allows us to present them with enhanced production value.
Q: Do you plan to work on more cross-border projects?
A: Absolutely! This is just the beginning. Seeing the success and impact of Parastree, I am even more determined to explore future collaborations. Right now, my focus is on my next film—the sequel to Aama, and I’m already considering ways to bring in international elements to strengthen the production.
A New Era for Nepali Cinema
With Parastree, Mrs. Pandey has proven that Nepali cinema is ready for a bigger stage. By successfully executing one of Nepal’s rare Indo-Nepali projects, she has set a precedent for future filmmakers to think beyond national borders. Her work is not just a personal achievement but a significant step toward redefining the possibilities of Nepali cinema.
As she continues to explore new collaborations, one thing is clear—Mrs. Pandey is shaping the future of Nepal’s film industry, and the world is starting to take notice.
Sanu
Sanu Shrstha
