‘Unko Sweater’ evening draws thousands in Dharan (photos)

KATHMANDU: In a musical celebration held Thursday evening, the city of Dharan came alive as over 6,000 enthusiastic attendees gathered at Dharan Stadium for the promotional event titled ‘Woolen Sweater Evening’, organized to promote the much-anticipated Nepali feature film “Unko Sweater” (Woolen Sweater), slated for global release on May 9 (Baisakh 26).

The event served as a major milestone in the film’s promotional campaign, with fans traveling from various parts of Eastern Nepal — including a 200-kilometer motorcycle rally from Phidim in Panchthar to Dharan.

Spectators from rural villages also joined in, turning the stadium into a vibrant hub of music, film, and cultural celebration.

Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City Mayor Harka Sampang, Deputy Mayor Indra Bikram Begah, and other dignitaries were present to welcome the cast and crew.

The main actors — Bipin Karki, Miruna Magar, Wilson Bikram Rai, Pariksha Limbu, Alex Paras — along with director Naveen Chauhan, singer Sujan Chapagain, musician and vocalist Jhuma Limbu, and lyricist Yuvraj Kafle were honored by Mayor Sampang during the event.

Sujan Chapagain and his band The Infinity delivered powerful live performances of their hit songs including “Lajayera Eklai Kina,” “Timi Bina Timi Hunu,” “Phulthunge Rani,” “Aansuko Bhaari,” “Gala Pukka,” “Teenpate,” and “Makhamali.” A standout moment was the emotional duet “Kafle” by Chapagain and Jhuma Limbu, which deeply resonated with the audience.

Director Chauhan announced that proceeds from the event will be donated to support the Labor Culture Campaign of Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City, adding a social dimension to the promotional initiative.

The event followed similar successful shows held earlier in Pokhara and Kathmandu.

“Woolen Sweater” marks Chauhan’s debut feature film, although he is already known for his work in musical films like “Ghoomi Ghoomi,” “Dekhera Timilai – Teenpate,” “Phulthunge Rani,” and “Chandrama.” Chauhan has also written the script for the new film, which was shot in the scenic locations of Panchthar and along the Nepal-India border near Phalelung.

Produced by Artmandu Pvt. Ltd., the film features a star-studded cast including Sunil Pokharel, Mao Tse Gurung, Prem Subba, Suraj Tamang, Sharda Devi Silwal, and Bhavana Khapangi Magar alongside the lead actors.

Music is composed by Sujan Chapagain and Jhuma Limbu, with songs like “Phool,” “Makhamali,” and “Kafle” already trending on social media along with the recently released trailer.

The vibrant Dharan event has set the stage for a strong opening as anticipation continues to build for “Woolen Sweater” ahead of its theatrical debut next week.