Balai Sen

Yam Thapa is a Nepali film writer and director known for his work across story, screenplay, dialogue, and direction in modern Nepali cinema. Active since 2014, he has contributed to several notable films, including Kohinoor (screenplay, dialogue), K Ma Timro Haina Ra (screenplay), and the acclaimed Blind Rocks (story). His breakthrough as a director came with Hurray (2018) and Rajja Rani (2018), followed by the emotional drama Meri Mamu, where he served as both writer and director.Thapa’s recent works include writing and directing the upcoming film Lalibazar (2026), and contributing story, screenplay, and dialogue to titles such as Paraan (2025) and Anjila (2025). His storytelling blends social realism with emotional depth, making him one of the consistently active multi‑disciplinary creators shaping contemporary Nepali cinema.

Durga Prasad Khatiwada is a renowned Nepali bansuri (flute) maestro, educator, and cultural ambassador, originally from Ilam. A graduate of Banaras Hindu University with a Master’s in Flute (2003), he has performed in over 20 countries, representing Nepal at prestigious events—including during state visits by leaders like Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi. Khatiwada is a music officer at Rastriya Nachghar and has taught classical music at institutions like Lalit Kala Campus and Sirjana College of Fine Arts. He pioneered flute education in Nepal’s higher education system by developing formal curricula. His international teaching includes sessions in Norway, Sweden, Germany, and France. Inspired early on by Gopal Yonjan, Khatiwada has dedicated his life to promoting classical music as the foundation of all musical forms. His performances and teachings emphasize peace, discipline, and cultural identity, making him a vital figure in Nepal’s musical heritage.

Starting from her early childhood in Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Sakuntala Sharma (born 2008 B.S.) grew into one of Nepal’s most respected theatre artists and actresses, known for her expressive performances and deep commitment to stagecraft. She began acting at the age of ten with the play Palansko Phool, marking the start of a lifelong dedication to Nepali theatre. In 2033 B.S., she entered an inter‑caste arranged marriage with actor and theatre director Harihar Sharma, forming one of Nepal’s most influential artistic partnerships.Sakuntala became widely recognized for her powerful roles in acclaimed plays such as Kosanga Judhaun, Manis ra Mukundo, Pahad Chichyairahechha, Farkera Herdā, Kankal, Chyatitako Parda, and Parkhalbhitra. Her transition to cinema in the 1970s brought memorable performances in Hijo, Aaja ra Bholi, Badlindo Aakash, Vasudev, Mayapriti, Chokho Maya, Chelibeti, Sindoor, and Santaan Tharitharika. She also contributed significantly to Radio Nepal through numerous radio dramas, strengthening her legacy as a versatile and enduring performer in Nepali performing arts.