Ram Shanker Pradhan

Baikuntha Man Maskey is honored as the first cinematographer of Nepali cinema, a pioneering figure who helped shape the visual foundation of early Nepali films. He earned a Diploma in Cinematography from the Film and Television Institute in Pune, India, in the 1960s, and began his career as the chief cinematographer for “Manko Baadh.” Maskey went on to shoot numerous films, including “Parivartan” and “Hijo Aaja Bholi,” along with extensive work in documentaries and television. He passed away at the age of 83, leaving behind a lasting technical and artistic legacy.

Starting from his early career in the late 1980s, Deepak Dhakal emerged as a dedicated Nepali cinematographer known for his steady contribution to commercial and social‑themed Nepali cinema. He made his debut as a cinematographer with Sindoor and went on to work in more than 20 feature films, shaping the visual tone of 1990s and early‑2000s Nepali filmmaking.Dhakal’s filmography includes notable titles such as Shanti Deep (1989), Cheli Beti (1990), Pheri Bhetaula (1990), Didi (1992), Chokho Maya (1993), Chatyang (1994), Chahana (1994), Sarangi (1994), and Pahilo Prem (1997). His work is remembered for its grounded visual style, clarity in storytelling, and commitment to traditional Nepali cinematographic techniques.Beyond filmmaking, Dhakal served as a professor at Oscar International College, Nepal’s only dedicated film‑teaching institute, and was an active member of NEFTA, contributing to the professional development of the industry. He passed away on 3 December 2015 due to a brain hemorrhage, leaving behind a respected legacy in Nepali cinema.

Manju Kumar Shrestha is a Nepali cinematographer who played an important role in the early technical development of Nepal’s film industry. In 2029 B.S., he joined the Royal Nepal Film Corporation (then known as Shahi Nepali Chalchitra Sansthan).In 2030 B.S., he worked as a film photographer for the corporation’s first production, Man Ko Bandh. At that time, most technical experts in Nepali filmmaking—such as directors, cameramen, and lighting technicians—had to be brought from India due to the lack of local professionals.During the shooting of Man Ko Bandh, the Indian cinematographer fell ill, and Shrestha stepped in to operate the camera himself. Although he carried out much of the filming, he was credited only as an assistant cameraman when the film was released. This experience marked the beginning of his career as a cinematographer.He later went on to shoot many Nepali films, including Kumari, recognized as Nepal’s first color film, and Jeevan Rekha. Over the course of his career, Manju Kumar Shrestha has worked as a cinematographer on more than 70 films, making a significant contribution to the growth and technical progress of Nepali cinema.

Gauri Shanker Dhunju is a Nepali cinematographer known for his steady visual craftsmanship across feature films, music videos, and television productions. Active for many years in Nepal’s evolving film and broadcast landscape, he has been closely associated with the iconic comedy duo “Maha Jodi,” contributing to numerous awareness‑based TV serials, short films, and social‑message projects produced under Maha Sanchar. His long collaboration with the team strengthened his reputation for clean visuals, controlled lighting, and dependable on‑set execution. Alongside cinematography, Dhunju has also appeared on screen in select roles, reflecting his comfort both behind and in front of the camera.