Kathmandu: The 12th edition of the Nepal Human Rights International Film Festival opened today, featuring a diverse lineup of 53 films from 23 countries. The festival, which aims to raise awareness and promote human rights, also includes side events such as seminars and interactive sessions. This year’s theme, ‘Social Justice,’ highlights global efforts to address inequality and injustice.

Pandav Khatri, President of the Human Rights International Film Centre and Festival Director, spoke at the opening, emphasizing the festival’s role in showcasing films that address human rights issues. “We have been regularly organizing this festival to promote and screen human rights-related films,” Khatri said.

Among the films featured are ‘All We Imagine As Light,’ ‘The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent,’ ‘The Outrun,’ and ‘Anaar Daana,’ all of which have received recognition at renowned film festivals such as Cannes and Berlin.

A key highlight of this year’s festival is ‘Devi,’ a documentary by Nepali filmmaker and journalist Subina Shrestha. The film tells the powerful story of Devi, a rebel warrior and survivor of sexual violence during Nepal’s civil war, who continues to fight for justice. ‘Devi’ has garnered significant international recognition, including an Honourable Mention in the Best Social Impact Documentary category at the Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival and the Edge of Impact Award at the Documentary Edge Festival. It was also featured at the Alternativa Film Festival 2024 in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

The four-day festival is expected to attract a wide range of stakeholders from the film industries of Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India. Screenings and side events are being held at the Film Development Board’s meeting hall and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) auditorium hall.

This year’s event offers a platform to discuss pressing human rights issues and celebrates the power of film in fostering social change and justice.