Swastima Khadka’s bold role in ‘Lalibazar’ revealed

KATHMANDU: The first-look poster of the upcoming Nepali film Lalibazar, directed by Yam Thapa, has been officially unveiled.

The poster introduces actress Swastima Khadka in a bold new avatar, hinting at a complex and unconventional character.

The film is set to hit theatres on Falgun 1.

In the poster, Swastima is seen visibly pregnant, dressed in a sparkling outfit, adorned with intense makeup. Interestingly, despite her pregnancy, traditional marital symbols such as sindoor and mangalsutra are absent—prompting speculation about her character possibly portraying a sex worker or an unmarried mother. She is seen standing at a doorway, peering out with a contemplative look, adding to the intrigue.

Director Yam Thapa, known for films like Rajja Rani, Kanchi, Happy Days, and Meri Mamu, returns to direction after nearly five years.

He recently penned the script for Paran and wrote Anjila before this.

Produced under the banner of Shatkon Arts—famed for the Jatra series—Lalibazar is being produced by Rabindra Singh Baniya and Max Dipesh Khatri, with Pradip Bhattarai as the executive producer.

Filming is scheduled to begin right after the upcoming Dashain festival in Bardiya.

According to Thapa, the script is complete, and casting is underway. So far, only Swastima has been officially confirmed for the cast. The film is said to be centered around a sensitive social issue.

Swastima expressed her enthusiasm about taking on a new and challenging role. “This character is unlike any I’ve portrayed before.

The poster itself tells a lot. I’m very excited to bring this woman to life on screen,” she said.