Kathmandu: Opal Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand won the Miss World 2025 title at the 72nd edition of the international beauty pageant held in Hyderabad on Saturday.



Chuangsri was selected from among 108 contestants representing various countries. Ethiopia’s Hasset Dereje Admassu was declared the first runner-up.



The crown was passed on to Chuangsri by the outgoing Miss World, Krystyna Pyszková.



The event was co-hosted by Miss World 2016 Stephanie del Valle and Indian presenter Sachiin Kumbhar. This marks the second consecutive year that India has hosted the global competition.



India’s Nandini Gupta advanced to the top 20 but did not make it to the final round.



India has produced six Miss World winners to date: Reita Faria (1966), Aishwarya Rai (1994), Diana Hayden (1997), Yukta Mookhey (1999), Priyanka Chopra (2000), and Manushi Chhillar (2017).

Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri crowned Miss World 2025

Kathmandu: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that beginning of the high-tech indoor shooting studio called 'Cinepa' was a sort of revolution for Nepal's film industry.



At a programme organized by the Film Development Board at the Prime Minister's official residence in Baluwatar today, the PM announced that a film studio would be built at Banepa in Kavre as per the demand of the film industry.



The demand being raised by the film industry and stakeholders for six decades is being addressed, the PM stated.



The studio though decided for its set up during Oli's first term as the PM was obstructed due to disputes over land and a change in the government.



"There is no sufficient money in the state coffers like that of the past but we will complete the initiated project. Budget allocation will be made for this," the PM said urging to make this project a success.



With the beginning of this project, a major shift has begun in this field, PM Oli viewed. Likewise, the PM drew attention of the Minister for Communications and Information Technology and the Secretary regarding the land encroachment and misuse of the Board and directed to prepare a report within 10 days after a probe.



During the event, Minister for Communications and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung, former Minister for Communications and Information Technology Gokul Prasad Baskota, Bagmati Province Assembly Member Kanchan Chandra Bade, Secretary at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology Radhika Aryal and others were present.

Film studio will be built in Banepa, PM assures

Kathmandu: Today is the International Jazz Day. Jazz music with melodious creation using various musical instruments has begun since the early 20th century.



In western countries, the music is popular among the youth. In November 2011, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) General Assembly declared April 30 as the International Jazz Day.



The day is celebrated to promote intercultural dialogue, respect for human rights and human dignity, eradicate discrimination, promote freedom of expression and gender equality, and strengthen the role of youth for social change.



UNESCO believes that the International Day will provide an opportunity for communities, schools, artists, historians, academics and jazz enthusiasts around the world to learn about the art of jazz, its origins, future and effects and contribute to the promotion of international peace and culture.



According to UNESCO, jazz will contribute to creating opportunities for unity, mutual understanding and tolerance, empowering young people from marginalized societies, and encouraging traditional music to be revitalized in a newer form.

World marks 'International Jazz Day' today

Kathmandu: A group of 53 tattoo artists from 20 countries participated in a special heritage walk in Kirtipur, immersing themselves in the rich cultural and historical fabric of the ancient city. These artists are in Nepal participating in upcoming Nepal Tattoo Convention 2025. The international artists were warmly welcomed by the Kirtipur Community Homestay, reflecting the city's renowned hospitality and community-based tourism efforts. The heritage walk was thoughtfully curated and organized by the Kirtipur Volunteer Society (KVS), an active local organization that has been regularly conducting heritage walks to promote Kirtipur’s unique identity. The walk has been supported by Kirtipur Guide Association. During the walk, the artists explored significant heritage sites including Chilancho Stupa and the Bagh Bhairab Temple, gaining insight into the spiritual, architectural, and historical significance of Kirtipur. The walk served as a cultural immersion experience, fostering deeper connections between the global art community and Nepal's living heritage. KVS President Sudhan Subedi extended heartfelt gratitude to all participating artists and the organizers of the Nepal Tattoo Convention for choosing Kirtipur as a cultural prelude to the event. He stated, “This is a proud moment for Kirtipur as it could serve as a meaningful backdrop for this international gathering.” Participants of the walk hail from a diverse range of countries including the USA, UK, Germany, Austria, Australia, India, Singapore, Italy, Indonesia, Cambodia, France, Costa Rica, Spain, China, Turkey, Hong Kong, Ukraine, Argentina, Canada, and Nepal, making the event a truly global celebration of art and culture. The Nepal Tattoo Convention 2025 is set to take place from April 11 to 13 at the Sanepa Heritage Garden in Lalitpur. The event is being actively promoted by the Nepal Tourism Board as part of its ongoing efforts to blend art, culture, and tourism in meaningful ways.

53 artists from 20 countries join heritage walk in Kirtipur

Kathmandu: Veteran Bollywood actor and director Manoj Kumar has passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai due to age-related health issues. Dr. Santosh Shetty of Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital confirmed his demise, stating that the actor had been battling health problems for a long time.



Kumar, born Harikrishan Goswami in 1937 in Punjab, was a defining figure in Indian cinema, renowned for his patriotic films that captivated audiences in the 1960s and 1970s.



His works, including Shaheed, Roti Kapada Aur Makaan, and Kranti, explored themes of nationalism, social justice, and the sacrifices of India's freedom fighters. His deep-rooted patriotism in cinema earned him the title ‘Bharat Kumar’ among fans and peers.



Tributes have poured in from across the nation, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling him an "icon of Indian cinema" whose works ignited national pride and will inspire generations. Bollywood actors Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn also expressed their condolences, praising him for his enduring impact on Indian cinema.



Kumar’s legacy extends beyond his films, as his performances and dialogues continue to resonate with audiences, often resurfacing in viral media clips. Over his illustrious career, he was honored with numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri and the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest cinematic honor.



His passing marks the end of an era in Bollywood, leaving behind a rich legacy of cinema that continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.

Veteran bollywood actor Manoj Kumar passes away at 87

Kathmandu: The third edition of the Nepal International Theatre Festival (NITFest) 2025 is set to take place from March 19 to 27 in Kathmandu and Pokhara, featuring 17 plays from 12 countries.



Organized by Mandala Theatre-Nepal, the festival will be held across multiple venues, including Mandala Aagan, Mandala Studio, and Mandala Theatre in Kathmandu, as well as Pokhara Theatre in Pokhara.



With the slogan "Theatre for Social Transformation: Light of Indigenous Wisdom," the festival aims to foster communal harmony, celebrate social diversity, and preserve intangible cultural heritage through artistic expression.



According to the organizers, NITFest 2025 will provide a platform for global theatre groups and artists to address socio-political issues through their performances.



The festival will showcase productions from Nepal, China, Germany, India, Iran, Japan, Lithuania, Norway, Scotland, Spain, Tunisia, and the United Kingdom.



The selection committee has chosen plays that highlight the socio-political realities of communities worldwide.



Beyond stage performances, NITFest 2025 will feature daily interactions, panel discussions, seminars, open-air performances, theatre photo exhibitions, cultural stalls, and an encouragement award ceremony.



Organizers emphasize that the event will serve as a space for cultural exchange and artistic solidarity.



The festival comes at a time when Nepal’s theatre scene is gaining international recognition, with events like NITFest contributing to the country’s growing reputation as a hub for performing arts. Theatre enthusiasts, artists, and scholars from around the world are expected to participate in the week-long event.

Nepal International Theatre Festival 2025 to begin from March 19

Kathmandu: The Central Film Censorship Board has denied screening permission for 'Rajagunj', a Nepali film that has already been showcased at international festivals, citing its inclusion of a speech by former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.



The board objected to a 2015 public speech in which Oli compared political parties leaving the Constituent Assembly to “mangoes falling from a tree.” The footage, originally published by Onlinekhabar, is used in the film directed by Deepak Rauniyar. The board has asked for proof of permission from the former prime minister to use the clip, despite Rauniyar arguing that it falls under public domain content.



Board member Rishiraj Acharya stated that the film must comply with the board’s directives. Discussions are ongoing to resolve the issue.



'Rajagunj' premiered at the Venice Film Festival, earning a ten-minute standing ovation. Set in the Madhes region, the film follows a police operation to rescue kidnapped children, featuring Asha Magrati, Dayahang Rai, Bijay Baral, and Nikita Chandak. It is scheduled for release in Nepal on March 15.

Censorship board blocks Nepali film 'Rajagunj' over PM’s speech

Kathmandu: Independent film Anora, a dark comedy about a sex worker’s tumultuous marriage to the son of a Russian oligarch, emerged as the biggest winner at the Oscars on Sunday, claiming five awards, including Best Picture.



Directed by Sean Baker, the film also secured awards for Best Director, Best Editing, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Actress for 25-year-old Mikey Madison.



Her win came as a surprise, as many had predicted veteran actress Demi Moore would take home Best Actress for her role in the body-horror film The Substance.



Director Sean Baker, in one of his four acceptance speeches, took the opportunity to advocate for independent cinema, urging greater support for smaller-budget films.

Low budget ‘Anora’ triumphs at Oscars with Five Awards

Kathmandu: Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan has been hospitalized with multiple stab injuries following an attack by an intruder at his Mumbai residence early Thursday morning.



The incident occurred in an upscale neighborhood where Khan resides with his family. According to Mumbai police, the actor was injured during a scuffle with an unidentified man who reportedly entered his house after midnight.



Khan is currently undergoing surgery at Lilavati Hospital. Niraj Uttamani, the hospital’s chief operating officer, revealed that Khan sustained six stab wounds, two of which were deep, including one near his spine. A team of specialist doctors is attending to him.



While the actor’s family has not made any public statements, his publicity team has referred to the incident as an "attempted burglary" but refrained from providing additional details.



Mumbai’s Deputy Commissioner of Police, Dixit Gedam, confirmed that an argument erupted between Khan and the intruder, leading to the attack. The police have launched an investigation to identify and apprehend the suspect.



In a statement issued on Thursday morning, Khan’s team requested privacy and patience from fans and the media.



“We request the media and fans to be patient. It is a police matter. We will keep you updated on the situation,” the statement read.



Source: BBC

Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan hospitalized after stabbing incident

Kathmadu: Nepal will host the first-ever China Film Day on January 9, 2025, in an effort to enhance cultural relations between Nepal and China. The event, aimed at fostering collaboration in cinematic and cultural exchange, will take place at Chhaya Centre in Thamel, Kathmandu.



The China Film Day is being jointly organized by the China Film Administration, the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, the China Film Archive, and the Nepal Film and Cultural Academy (NFCA). The event will feature screenings of three acclaimed Chinese films, offering audiences a unique glimpse into Chinese cinema.



Following the screenings, there will be an interactive session with filmmakers, providing a valuable opportunity for dialogue and cultural exchange between the two nations. Organizers hope the event will serve as a bridge to further strengthen ties through storytelling and film production, contributing to broader Nepal-China cooperation in the arts.

China Film Day to be held in Kathmandu

Kathmandu: Selena Gomez has announced her engagement to songwriter Benny Blanco, sharing the exciting news on Instagram with a picture of her sparkling engagement ring. The actress and singer captioned the post, "forever begins now," confirming her commitment to Blanco, with whom she has been in a relationship since last year.



The couple, known for collaborating on hits like I Can't Get Enough (2019) and Single Soon (2023), received an outpouring of congratulations from famous friends. Among those celebrating the news were pop star Taylor Swift, who commented, "Yes I will be the flower girl," and rapper Cardi B, as well as actresses Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Aniston, and singer Lil Nas X.



In an Instagram Story shared with her 423 million followers, Gomez also posted a video revealing her engagement ring to loved ones, prompting joyous reactions on the other end of the phone.



Blanco, who has worked with artists like Rihanna, Justin Bieber, and Calvin Harris, previously spoke of his admiration for Gomez on The Drew Barrymore Show. "She's one of the sweetest, most charming, and humble people I've ever met," he said, describing their relationship as "completely real."



Gomez, who recently joined the billionaire ranks with a $1.3 billion fortune, is also celebrating career successes, including two Golden Globe nominations this week. She was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Emilia Pérez and Best Actress in a TV Series for Only Murders in the Building.



Source: BBC

Selena Gomez engaged to songwriter Benny Blanco

Kathmandu: Pranaya Shakya and his company, Kaleidoscope Production, were honored with the prestigious 2024 Freedom Filmmaker Recognition at the closing ceremony of the Queer Film Festival Kathmandu (QFK). Kaleidoscope Production, Nepal's only LGBTQIA+ led visual media production firm, was celebrated for its significant contribution to diverse cinema practices in Nepal and South Asia.



The Freedom Filmmaker Recognition, institutionalized by Docskool in 2018, is awarded to individuals and collectives who make remarkable strides in promoting diverse cinematic voices. The award features Docskool’s mascot, a human figure in agony, symbolizing the perseverance of filmmakers who continue to create freely despite challenges from both state and non-state actors. It serves as a tribute to the resilience of filmmakers who defy restrictions in their pursuit of artistic expression.



The recognition was presented on December 9th during the closing ceremony of QFK, Nepal’s first Queer Film Festival, held from December 6th to 9th. This year’s festival, hosted at multiple venues including Yalamaya Kendra and Docskool, alongside satellite locations such as Pink Tiffany Restaurant, Roxy, Smog Restaurant, and Hard Rock Café Kathmandu, attracted over 2,000 visitors. The festival showcased 51 films, including feature films, documentaries, and short fiction, exploring themes of queer identity.



The closing ceremony also featured the final screening of Fadia’s Tree, a poignant film marking the culmination of this year’s festival.



Docskool, the organizer of both the Freedom Filmmaker Recognition and the Queer Film Festival Kathmandu, is a filmmaker’s network established in 2008. The organization supports emerging filmmakers through alternative mechanisms and creative initiatives, helping to foster a more inclusive and diverse film culture in Nepal and beyond.

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