DHARAN – The Nepali film industry is in mourning following the sudden and tragic demise of veteran technician Shambhu Bhattarai. The 47-year-old senior lightman passed away on Friday morning while preparing for a shoot in Chatara, Dharan, marking a somber day for the close-knit community of The Film Nepal.
The incident occurred as the production of the upcoming Nepali Movie Karki Shaila was gearing up to resume filming. The project had recently paused its schedule to allow cast and crew members to return to their hometowns for the 2082 House of Representatives elections.
A Sudden Loss on Location
According to crew members present at the site, Bhattarai was in the middle of setting up lighting equipment for a scene when he suddenly complained of feeling unwell and collapsed.
Immediate Response: Colleagues rushed to his aid and attempted to transport him to a nearby medical facility, but he was tragically pronounced dead shortly after.
Actor's Tribute: Lead actor Jitu Nepal, who arrived at the location to find the devastating news, expressed his shock on social media.
"We were all set to restart the journey of 'Karki Saila' with new energy after the elections. To lose a dedicated teammate like Shambhu dai so suddenly has left us speechless. The lights have truly dimmed on our set today."
Remembering a Technical Veteran
Shambhu Bhattarai was a well-respected figure within the Nepal Film Technicians Association (NEFTA), known for his decades of service behind the camera.
Career: He contributed to dozens of notable Nepali Movies over a 20-year career, earning a reputation for his technical precision and mentorship of younger light-gaffers.
Personal Life: A permanent resident of Kharibot, Kathmandu, Bhattarai is survived by his wife and two sons.
Final Rites and Procedures
Following a post-mortem examination scheduled in Dharan on Saturday morning, his body will be transported back to the capital. His final rites are expected to be performed at Pashupati Aryaghat on Saturday afternoon, where members of the film fraternity are expected to gather to pay their final respects.
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