kathmandu —
The ‘Film Story Bank’ competition under the 3rd Karnali International Film Festival (KIFF) was formally announced in Kathmandu recently, with organizers emphasizing its role in uncovering hidden stories of Karnali and promoting the region through cinema.

Festival Director Chakra Bahadur Chand explained that the campaign aims to collect narratives reflecting Karnali’s history, culture, traditions, and social realities, giving filmmakers access to authentic stories that can be adapted into films.

Deepak Joshi, chief executive of Nepal Tourism Board, further said that stories are a powerful tool to market Karnali as a global tourist destination. “If we market the concept that it costs money to reach the upper parts of Karnali, global demand will improve. Policies have to be introduced to market Karnali more. Stories can be the tool to introduce Karnali,” he said.

Popular actor and producer Deepak Raj Giri reaffirmed that filmmaking is the best medium to showcase Karnali to the international community.

Former Chief Minister of Karnali Jeevan Bahadur Shahi appreciated the initiative, taking credit for not knowing about such an initiative existing before. He promised to make representations to the government seeking patronization, infrastructure development, and favorable conditions for both domestic and foreign film shoots in the province.

Under the ‘Film Story Bank Competition’, any Nepali citizen living in Nepal or abroad can participate. Submitted stories must be original, unpublished, and not previously adapted into a film. Entries should focus on Karnali’s culture, history, traditions, or social realities. The top three stories will be awarded cash prizes of Rs. 50,000, Rs. 30,000, and Rs. 20,000.