‘Roll No 1’ highlights parental pressure & child psychology

KATHMANDU: A film titled “Roll No 1”, set to release this Friday (May 29), delves into child psychology and the intense pressure children face to secure top academic ranks due to parental expectations.

The film centers on how families, driven by social prestige and the belief that academic excellence defines success, often push children to perform as class toppers.

The trailer also hints at a satirical take on Nepal’s education system.

Lead actor Mukun Bhusal says the film challenges the societal notion that only first-rank students are intelligent or successful. “It reflects a common mindset in our society where parents try to fulfill their own unachieved dreams through their children and force them into excessive study pressure,” he said. He added that the film advocates allowing children to follow their interests rather than imposing expectations on them.

Bhusal, however, clarified that the film does not discourage education. “It does not promote the idea that studying is unnecessary.

Rather, it clearly conveys that education is essential for success in life, but unnecessary pressure can have harmful effects,” he noted.

Actor Sushank Mainali described the film as a story of emotional and psychological conflict between parents and children. “Every parent wants their child to achieve what they could not. The film portrays that struggle and the pressure that comes with it,” he said.

Mainali also pointed out that the film’s theme loosely aligns with recent government guidance discouraging examinations up to Grade Five and encouraging extracurricular activities. However, he clarified that this is purely coincidental and not politically driven.

Actress Renu Yogi added that the film portrays the aspirations of parents who want their children to escape poverty through education, while also highlighting the emotional impact of excessive academic pressure on children.

She emphasized that the film presents a realistic depiction of how sensitive children are to such stress.

“Roll No 1” is expected to spark discussion on parenting styles, academic pressure, and the balance between discipline and emotional well-being in children.