KATHMANDU: Actress Swastima Khadka has been signed in the lead role for Lalibazar, the upcoming film by Shatkon Arts—the production house behind hits like Jatra, Jatrai Jatra, Mahapurush, and Mahajatra. The makers unveiled a poster featuring Khadka and announced the release date as Falgun 1.

In the newly released poster, Khadka is seen in the role of a pregnant woman, but with a contrasting tone in her appearance and expression, hinting at a layered and unconventional character. She portrays a woman whose physical condition and inner desires seem to be in conflict—a creative tension that suggests depth in the story.

Lalibazar is written and directed by Yam Thapa, while Ravindra Singh Baniya and Max Dipesh Khatri are producing the film. Pradip Bhattarai is the executive producer.

Khadka expressed excitement about presenting herself in a new light, saying, “Audiences will see a very different Swastima in this film. The poster already speaks volumes, and I’m excited to bring this character to life.”

According to producer Baniya, the project began as Shatkon Arts was in search of fresh scripts. They were drawn to Thapa’s script and eventually requested him to direct it himself. “We were in talks with various writers and directors, and Thapa’s script stood out. He initially offered the story, but we urged him to take on direction as well,” Baniya explained.

Director Yam Thapa, returning to direction after a brief hiatus, is confident Lalibazar will mark a new milestone in his career. He shared that his encounter with director Bhattarai led to a meeting with Shatkon Arts, where he pitched an idea that the team immediately liked. “This project is both an opportunity and a challenge,” Thapa added, noting that further cast and story details will be revealed gradually.

The poster’s photography is credited to Keshav Pandey, and it was designed by Royal Bhimsen (Trident Concept). The film is slated to begin shooting just after the upcoming Dashain festival.

Lalibazar marks Shatkon Arts’ fifth solo production. The banner has previously collaborated with other production houses on films such as Tulkajang Versus Tulke, Dakini, and Super Monk.