KATHMANDU: Many people turn to films on YouTube for both entertainment and learning during long Dashain and Tihar holidays. While all movies do not appeal to every group of viewers, some have managed to reach extraordinary popularity online.
Himal Press has compiled a list of five Nepali films that have each crossed more than 30 million views on YouTube, ranking among the most-watched so far. These include both recent releases and older hits that continue to attract audiences.
Interestingly, some of these films were panned by critics and failed to draw footfall to theaters.
1) Chhakka Panja 3 – 37 million views
The third installment of the blockbuster franchise Chhakka Panja, directed by Deepa Shree Niraula, tops the chart with around 37 million views. The film highlights the dire state of education in rural Nepal, mixing social commentary with comedy. Featuring Deepak Raj Giri, Deepika Prasai, Priyanka Karki, Jeetu Nepal, and Neer Shah, the movie carries a message about the urgent need for school reforms. The franchise has five sequels.
2) Captain – 36.6 million views
Produced by veteran actor Bhuwan KC, Captain is a sports drama centered on football. It stars Anmol KC as Ishaan, a young player determined to fulfill his late father’s dream of winning gold for Nepal. Directed by Diwakar Bhattarai, the movie portrays Ishaan’s struggles with poverty, family hardships and love, alongside his passion for football. Its inspirational theme has drawn in over 36 million viewers.
3) Prem Geet – 34.5 million views
This romantic drama, directed by Sudarshan Thapa, tells the story of star-crossed lovers played by Pooja Sharma and Pradeep Khadka. The film follows their journey through love, family conflict and sacrifice, with a moving portrayal of devotion and tragedy. Written by Ramcharan Paudel, Prem Geet became such a hit that it spawned two sequels, Prem Geet 2 and Prem Geet 3, both of which also enjoyed success.
4) Nai Nabhannu La 5 – 33.3 million views
Part of the popular Nai Nabhannu La series, this fifth installment focuses on childhood love maturing into adulthood. Directed by Bikash Raj Acharya, the film stars child actors Sedrina Sharma and Anubhav Regmi. The romance, quarrels and later-life struggles of the main characters drive the story. The movie also features Swastima Khadka, Priyanka Karki, and Keki Adhikari. Its emotional depth, coupled with hit songs like Balapan Ko Umer, has helped it cross 33 million views.
5) Mr Jholey – 32.4 million views
Directed and written by Ram Babu Gurung, Mr Jholey tells the story of rural family life, stigma and survival. The narrative explores the hardships of a woman whose husband goes missing, the struggles of children born out of wedlock and the story of an accused criminal hiding in the village. Featuring Dayahang Rai, Deeya Pun, Barsha Raut and Buddhi Tamang, the film’s raw portrayal of society has resonated strongly with audiences.
