The Cinema Times, Kathmandu – Set to hit theatres this Friday, ‘Jante Bakhro’ received glowing reviews during its premiere held Wednesday evening at QFX Cinemas, Civil Mall, Sundhara. A host of celebrities and media personalities attended the screening, praising the cinema’s humor, heart and strong cultural essence.

Actor Barsha Raut shared that she hadn’t laughed so heartily in a cinema for a long time. ‘It was such a delight to see Asif Dai (Asif Shah) on screen again. His performance is refreshingly different,’ she said. Similarly, actor Sanjog Koirala called the cinema a meaningful blend of tradition and entertainment, especially suited to a new generation of viewers. ‘The rural setting is beautifully portrayed, it brings together culture, natural beauty and lighthearted storytelling,’ he shared.

Actor-comedian Sandeep Chhetri, who was familiar with the script during its development, praised its cinematic execution. ‘It exceeded my expectations. The cinema managed to keep the entire audience engaged and entertained in the premiere. This cinema marks the arrival of a great producer, Santosh Gautam, who hasn’t compromised on quality.’

Singer Mahesh Kafle described the cinema as emotionally resonant. He said that the story flows smoothly and evokes laughter throughout. Actor Lokendra Lekhak praised the team and storytelling, calling ‘Jante Bakhro’ a wholesome family cinema.

Playing the lead role for the first time, actor Garima Sharma is encouraged by the positive responses in the premiere. ‘The audience at the premiere found the cinema entertaining, well-paced, and well executed. That’s a big motivation for us. My character is the core of the story and this experience has been a mix of excitement and nervousness for me.’

Actor Asif Shah, returning to the screen after a long break, said watching the cinema as a viewer was a joyful experience. ‘This is a family cinema with a perfect blend of humor and emotion. It’s my first time working in a rural setting, and it was refreshing. The positive feedback at the premiere gives us hope for similar reactions after the theatrical release,’ he said.

Actor Saugat Malla shared his anticipation for public response after the cinema’s release. He believes that they have done a good job and hopefully the audience will appreciate his character in the cinema.

Producer Santosh Gautam emphasized that they have made a cinema that every member of the family can watch together. The cinema’s theme and presentation were carefully chosen for that purpose.

Set against the backdrop of disappearing rural traditions, the cinema celebrates the essence of Nepali culture in village life, the traditions that are slowly fading- like wedding guests enjoying feasts in leaf plates (Tapari) while seated on the ground. The cinema captures the traditional practices and offers both entertainment and cultural insights to the younger generation.

Presented by MUIN Entertainment, ‘Jante Bakhro’ is a social comedy based on a unique Nepali tradition. Directed by Simosh Sunuwar, the trailer and songs like ‘Muku Muku Mya’, ‘Ghamai Raja’ and ‘Angurko Jhuppo’ have already gained popularity.

Written by Pradeep Bhardwaj, the cinema features cinematography by Uttam Humagain and DOP by Hari Humagain, editing by Sunil Shivabhakti and poster design by Royal Bhimsen (Trident Concept Team). Produced by Santosh Gautam, the cinema will be distributed by Tea Folks Films and its digital rights have been acquired by G21 Digital.

‘Jante Bakhro’ is a celebration of heritage, humor and heartfelt storytelling. Catch it in cinemas on Jestha 23.