Kathmandu — With the 21st Election General Assembly of the Nepal Film Artists' Association scheduled for Chaitra 28 (Saturday), the Nepali film industry's most important internal contest is heating up. Two distinct visions for the future of the organization are on the ballot, represented by two very different leaders: veteran actor Uttam KC and actor Sabin Shrestha.
Two Candidates, Two Visions
Uttam KC brings over four decades of experience to his candidacy, drawing on his long institutional history, his work with the Film Development Board, and a deep understanding of the industry's structural challenges. His platform centers on strengthening the overall framework of the Nepali film sector, with an emphasis on professional development, cultural preservation, and long-term institutional stability.
Sabin Shrestha, by contrast, is running on a platform of generational balance, adopting the slogan "Respect for seniors, future for the new generation." His campaign is energetic and movement-oriented, framing the election not merely as a leadership selection process but as what he calls a "movement for rights and opportunities." His approach appears designed to energize younger and more active members of the association.
Where They Agree
Despite their stylistic differences, both candidates share several core priorities: ensuring the rights and dignity of artists, expanding professional opportunities, strengthening the film industry, and building a more united and effective association. The fact that both platforms converge on these issues suggests that the fundamental problems facing Nepal's artist community are well understood — the debate is about the best path forward.
Who Will the Voters Choose?
Analysts suggest that the voting membership may divide along generational lines. Senior and traditionally oriented artists are expected to gravitate toward Uttam KC's experience-driven platform, while younger and more activism-minded members may find Sabin Shrestha's campaign energy more compelling.
The Panels in Full
Uttam KC Panel: President: Uttam KC; Vice Presidents: Shiva Hari Nepal Bairagi, Shital KC; General Secretary: Sunil Katwal; Secretary: Gopal Dhakal "Chhande"; Treasurer: Tejula Khatiwada; Joint Treasurer: Geeta Nepal; Members include Shridev Bhattarai, Prem Pande, Jeevan Thapa, Samana Sitaula, Dawa Phinjho Taman, Harishchandra Phuyal, Anumati Nepali, Laxman Chaulagain, Namrata Yogi, and others.
Sabin Shrestha Panel: President: Sabin Shrestha; Vice Presidents: Uddhav Prasad Bhattarai, Panah Adhikari; General Secretary: Rameshwar Burlakoti; Secretary: Palpasa Dangol; Treasurer: Pawitra Acharya; Joint Treasurer: Pawan KC; Members include Binod Bhattarai, Navin Shrestha, Rashmi Bhatta, Namrata Kharel, Sarita Rajopadhyaya, Daman Rupakheti, Suleiman Shankar (Iku), Chhulthim Gurung, Shyam Krishna Shrestha (Ishara), Supa Khanal, Rajesh Gorai, and others.
More than a leadership contest, this election is a referendum on what Nepali artists want their collective future to look like — stability and institutional depth on one side, change and generational renewal on the other. The vote on Chaitra 28 will determine which vision carries the day.
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