Who is ‘Jaar’ actress Geetanjali Thapa?

KATHMANDU: The Nepali feature film ‘Jaar’ is scheduled for theatrical release on Baisakh 26 (May 9, 2025).

The film, rooted in social themes and historical realism, boasts a stellar cast including Saugat Malla, Anup Bikram Shahi, and acclaimed actress Geetanjali Thapa in leading roles.

‘Jaar’ brings a fresh cinematic experience to Nepali audiences with the debut of Geetanjali Thapa in a major role.

Although new to Nepali mainstream cinema, Thapa is a National Award-winning Indian actress, celebrated for her outstanding performance in the critically acclaimed film ‘Liar’s Dice’.

Her presence in ‘Jaar’ is expected to offer a refreshing and credible portrayal, adding depth and dimension to the storyline.

Thapa is not only recognized in India but has earned international acclaim. She has appeared in Netflix’s popular series ‘Sacred Games’ and has had films screened at prestigious global film festivals including Toronto, Busan, Los Angeles, and New York. With such a diverse portfolio, Thapa’s involvement is seen as elevating ‘Jaar’ to a new cinematic standard.

The film is based on a historical story by renowned literary figure Indra Bahadur Rai, set in the 1800s and reflecting real social incidents from Nepali history.

Through a romantic narrative, ‘Jaar’ explores the complex dynamics of societal structure and human emotions of the time.

Directed by Phurba Chhiring Lama, the film is being touted as a complete cinematic package—blending compelling storytelling with technical finesse.

Director Lama asserts that although the film tackles serious social issues, it is crafted to appeal to both mass and critical audiences alike.

Produced by Telltale Pictures in collaboration with Hope Reels, LA7 Shorts, Baral Studio, and Kiwa Production, the film was primarily shot in Sikkim. The cinematography is led by Saravanan Elavarasu, editing by Akhilesh Rai, and music composed by Jhuma Limbu and Ganga Thapa.

Executive producers include Trilochan Pandey, Neeraj Rai, Nursang Bhutia, Jyoti Kshetri, and Pema Rinzing Lepcha. The film will be released simultaneously in Nepal, India, and international markets. Apple Entertainment, Reach Entertainment, and FD Company are handling distribution within Nepal.

‘Jaar’ recently held its grand world premiere in Sikkim, where it received an overwhelmingly positive response from local audiences.

Viewers expressed deep emotional engagement with the film, with many praising its authenticity, cinematography, background score, and visual effects.

According to filmmaker Samten Bhutia, the film does complete justice to Indra Bahadur Rai’s original story. He remarked, “This is a film where you truly feel the presence of the director in every frame. Even long scenes with no dialogue manage to hold the viewer’s attention—proof that Nepali cinema has found a truly creative filmmaker.”