Kathmandu: The government has announced that from now on, the 15th of Asar, a month in the Nepali calendar, will be celebrated as National Film Day. This decision was disclosed by Minister for Communications and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung during an event commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Nepal Film Development Board.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Gurung, who also serves as the government’s Spokesperson, revealed that the cabinet made this decision at a meeting held on June 27. The chosen date, Asar 15, is significant as it marks the release date of ‘Aama’ (Mother), the first Nepali movie produced in Nepal, symbolizing 60 years of the Nepali cinema sector’s proud history.
Minister Gurung expressed hope that this new observance would strengthen the tradition of celebrating Nepali cinema’s history. During the event, he also honored the 25 highest-grossing Nepali films that have been released since the establishment of the Nepal Film Development Board in 2000.
Asar 15 is also traditionally celebrated as National Paddy Day in Nepal. On this day, Nepalis partake in the custom of enjoying a special dish of yogurt and beaten rice.