KATHMANDU: Shambhala, which is being directed by Min Bahadur Bham, holds the record of Nepal’s most expensive film to date. The director revealed that the production budget of the film was NPR 150 million (about USD 1.13 million) or more.

The exorbitant budget was attributed to several factors including the rigorous shoots in the Himalayan region, extensive research on the plot, and post-production work carried out abroad. Shambhala premiered in Nepal on September 13, 2024 (Bhadra 28, 2081 B.S.).

The film made history as the first Nepali feature film to be selected for the International Competition category at the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival. Additionally, it was chosen for the 77th Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland, where it featured in the renowned Piazza Grande section. Beyond these, Shambhala earned a place in numerous other international film festivals.

The film stars Thinley Lhamo, Sonam Topden, Tenzing Dalha, and Karma in key roles. The plot centers around a pregnant woman from a remote Himalayan village who embarks on a journey to
find her husband after he abandons her. Accompanied by her brother-in-law, she faces various challenges along the way. The screenplay was co-authored by Min Bahadur Bham and Avinash Bikram Shah.

In terms of commercial success, Shambhala grossed a lifetime total of NPR 21,222,351 (approximately USD 160,000) at the Nepali box office.