KATHMANDU: Nabin Chauhan, the man behind popular music videos such as Tinpate, Sunakhari, Baaf and Batauli, is making his debut as a feature filmmaker with Unko Sweater (Woolen Sweater), which is releasing this Friday.
Though Chauhan had long considered filmmaking, he hadn’t expected it to happen so soon. Drawing on his experience of directing musical films, Chauhan found the transition surprisingly smooth. “Every genre has its style. In music videos, I worked with characters, camera techniques and locations. The camera, being the common medium, helped bridge the gap,” he said.
The journey in filmmaking, however, was not without challenges. It took four years to bring Unko Sweater to life. “I was thrilled when we first announced the film. But the process of writing and producing it came with many ups and downs,” Chauhan recalled. “Now that the songs, teaser, trailer and other promotional materials are out, we are finally feeling the joy.”
The film’s soundtrack has already made waves, with the song ‘Kafle’ trending in social media platforms. Other tracks like Makhmali and Phool, and the trailer, have also been liked by the audience. The title, Unko Sweater, symbolizes warmth and serenity according to Chauhan.
Set against a social backdrop, Unko Sweater explores the beauty of Nepal’s diverse society through the story of Dharanidhar Kafle and Phool in the Limbu community. “It portrays rural life, the struggles of previous generations, and celebrates human connection and cultural diversity,” Chauhan said.
Bipin Karki stars as Dharanidhar Kafle, a reserved, simple man portrayed in both his youth and maturity. “No matter how the film performs, Unko Sweater will be among the top five films of my career—alongside Hari, Naka, Selfie King and Jatra,” Karki said.
Miruna Magar, who essays the character of Phool, sees the film as a unique entry in the current cinematic landscape. She was drawn to the project after hearing the song Phool. Known for portraying women from rural backgrounds, Miruna says she wants to redefine boldness—not through attire, but through the decisions taken by her characters.
The film also marks the acting debut of dancer Alex Paras, who is paired opposite Pariksha Limbu. “Spending two months in the village for the shoot was eye-opening,” Paras said. Pariksha, known for roles in Pujar Sarki, Jaari and Chhakka Panja 4, continues to build her presence in the industry with Unko Sweater.
The ensemble cast also includes Wilson Bikram Rai, Sunil Pokharel, Maotse Gurung, Prem Subba and Suraj Tamu.
Unko Sweater is not just a new chapter for Chauhan but also Artmandu, the production house known for music videos set in a rural landscape.
