Janakpur | The second edition of the Janakpur International Film Festival 2026 commenced on a powerful note with the premiere screening of Shakti as its opening film.
Directed by Nani Sahra Walker, Shakti set the tone for the festival with its intense narrative addressing social justice, gender violence, and systemic inequalities in Nepali society. The festival, hosted in Janakpurdham, brings together filmmakers, artists, and audiences from across Nepal and beyond.
The opening screening witnessed the presence of prominent personalities associated with the film. Actor Looniva Tuladhar, along with the film’s executive producer and the child artist from the film, attended the premiere, adding excitement and emotional connection to the event. Their presence was warmly received by the audience, especially young film enthusiasts and local attendees.
Shakti follows the story of a mother and her young daughter navigating trauma, justice, and healing in Kathmandu, using a deeply personal lens to highlight broader societal issues.
Organized by Sambad Foundation, JIFF 2026 aims to promote Nepali and Maithili cinema while creating a global platform for storytelling. The festival features around 60 films from different countries, alongside panel discussions, workshops, and cultural exchanges.
With Shakti as its opening film, the festival has begun on a meaningful and thought-provoking note, reinforcing cinema’s role as a medium for dialogue, awareness, and social change.
