Filming of ‘Kabaddi 5’ underway in Mustang’s Thasang

KATHMANDU: The fifth installment of the popular Nepali film Kabaddi is currently being filmed in Thak 700 area of Thasang Rural Municipality, Mustang.

Produced under the banner of Bansuri Films, the movie is said to be deeply connected to Thakali art, culture, and traditions, according to the production company.

Filming of all four previous Kabaddi movies also took place in the same region. Producer Maniram Pokharel said that the team chose Thasang’s Thak 700 once again because the story is rooted in Thakali culture and lifestyle. Shooting began on Ashoj 26 at the sacred Muktinath Temple.

Directed by Ram Babu Gurung, the ongoing shoot covers several scenic locations, including Kobang, Naurikot, Larjung, and Tukuche. Pokharel added that this installment gives special emphasis to preserving and portraying Thakali heritage.

Unlike the earlier films, which involved a smaller crew, Kabaddi 5 has mobilized over 100 team members. Pokharel noted that better road access in recent years has made the filming process much smoother.

“We feel at home here,” said Pokharel. “The local Thakali community treats us like family. Their love, support, and unique way of life keep drawing us back to this beautiful region.”

According to assistant director Somanath Khanal, the film’s core narrative will explore Thakali traditions, attire, customs, and social values. Along with returning cast members, new actors have also joined the production.

The cast includes Dayahang Rai, Buddhi Tamang, Bipin Karki, Vijay Baral, Reshma Gurung, Aruna Karki, Kamal Mani Nepal, Pushkar Gurung, Kavita Ale, Srijana Gurung, Shishir Wangdel, Bishnu Moktan, and Pramila Rai, among others.

Dayahang Rai once again plays Kaji, the central character whose story this time is intertwined with Thakali culture. Khanal shared that the film portrays the ups and downs in the life of a Thakali Kaji, with Bir Kaji Sherchan also playing a lead role.

Actress Aruna Karki, who plays Kaji’s mother, said the continued filming of the Kabaddi series in Mustang is a reflection of audience love and the local community’s trust.

“Shooting in Thasang — the origin of Thakali culture — makes us feel proud,” Karki said. “Through Kabaddi, we’ve had the chance to understand Thakali traditions up close.”

Similarly, actress Reshma Gurung, who plays Maiya, expressed pride in filming at Naurikot, where “Maiya’s Hotel” has become a well-known landmark among fans. She added that Kabaddi’s filming in the region has also helped promote local tourism.