‘Unko Sweater’ achieves historic success in Nepali cinema, thrives globally

KATHMANDU: Nepali film Unko Sweater (Woolen Sweater) has earned a remarkable place in the history of Nepali cinema, both commercially and critically.

Directed and written by Naveen Chauhan, the film has grossed an impressive Rs 57.5 million within its first week of release, making it the first major box office hit of the year in Nepal.

Currently, Woolen Sweater is being screened in over 30 cities across the United States. From New York to California, Texas to Washington, and Ohio to Florida, Nepali audiences have been flocking to theaters in large numbers.

The film’s popularity is evident through strong advance bookings and packed screenings throughout the country.

In Australia, the film is also experiencing massive success with houseful shows in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Distributors have reported an overwhelming response from the Nepali diaspora.

In the U.S., the film is being shown in regions such as:

• Northeast: Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut, New York

• Mid-Atlantic: Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Washington D.C.

• Midwest: Ohio, Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Missouri, North Dakota, Kentucky

• Southeast: Georgia, Florida, Tennessee

• South Central: Texas

• Mountain West: Colorado

• West Coast: Washington, California

Woolen Sweater is also making waves in Japan, screening in major cities including Yokohama, Okinawa, Kyushu, Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Kurume, Kobe, Gifu, Nagoya, Osaka, Tokyo, Chiba, and Narita.

The film has received positive feedback from the local Nepali communities.

In South Korea, the film is scheduled to run from May 11 to June 1 in cities such as Seoul, Gimhae, Suwon, Mokpo, Gimpo, Buyeo, Jincheon, Onyang Oncheon, and Paju.

The response from Nepali students and workers has been enthusiastic.

Across Europe, screenings are set to begin from May 18 in Denmark, Portugal, Belgium, Cyprus, and Malta. In addition, preparations are underway for the film’s release in Canada.

In the Middle East, the film is already running successfully in the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. Screenings are also planned in Hong Kong, Singapore, and the United Kingdom.

The film stars Bipin Karki, Miruna Magar, Parikshya Limbu, Alex Pars, Wilson Bikram Rai, Suraj Tamang, Bhawana Khapangi Magar, and Sunil Pokharel.

Audiences have praised the film for its realistic storytelling, engaging dialogues, and Navin Chauhan’s compelling direction.

The soundtrack has played a vital role in the film’s popularity. Songs like “Chainejo Jindagani Ma” have gone viral on YouTube and TikTok, while tracks such as “Phool,” “Makhamali,” and “Kafle” have already garnered millions of views and listens.

The film’s trailer topped YouTube’s trending list upon release.

In its second week, Woolen Sweater continues to be screened in around 200 shows nationwide. Public interest remains high.

To maintain momentum, the production team has launched a promotional tour featuring actor Bipin Karki, actress Parikshya Limbu, Alex Pars, and singer Sujan Chapagain.

The team is meeting audiences across the country, starting from Damauli and Pokhara, and extending to Chitwan, Butwal, Dang, Nepalgunj, Dhangadhi, Damak, Dharan, Biratnagar, and Itahari.