Filmmaker Tribeny Rai and Cast visits SGC Namchi for the promotion of the movie "Shape of Momo".

Indra Pradhan
02/06/26
Filmmaker Tribeny Rai and Cast visits SGC Namchi for the promotion of the movie "Shape of Momo".

Tribeny Rai, the writer and director of the 2025 Nepali - language drama film "Shape of momo" along with its cast paid a visit to SGC Namchi for the special screening and interaction session of the movie, organized at the college auditorium.

With an inaugural speech by Dr. Sanjaya Kumar Subba , Vice Principal SGC Namchi, the programme commenced with the introduction of Miss Tribeny Rai followed by the screening of the movie trailer, providing a glimpse of the story. 

Transcending across the national boundaries, the movie had its world premiere at the 30th Busan International Film Festival in September 2025, where it won the Songwon Vision Award and the Taipei Film Commission Award. It was also shown at the San Sebastian International Film Festival in Spain and at the Kolkata International Film Festival, winning the Golden Royal Bengal Tiger award. The movie has won over 15 distinct awards across major international film festivals. It was also mentioned that noted filmmakers Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, Payal Kapadia, and Mike Goodridge served as the film's executive producers.

After the screening, Tribeny Rai was called upon the stage to address the gathering. She expressed that the inspiration behind the movie was to bring recognition to the Nepali minority that has been rarely presented in the mainstream media. She also mentioned that art and literature is what helps people transcend beyond the boundaries helping us spread our culture to people beyond. With the change in times , the Government has also provided our media with a vivid platform that enriches our art and culture.

One of the cast members, Miss Shyama Shree Sherpa, also shared her thoughts with the audience. She emphasized that the growth of a film industry depends not only on talented artists but also on the support of the audience. According to her, meaningful cinema can thrive only when people actively choose to watch and appreciate it.

Mr. Sanjay Dipali Rai, Chairman of the Cultural Department and an alumni of SGC Namchi in his speech described Shape of Momo as a truly authentic Sikkimese film, created by a Sikkimese writer-director and featuring a Sikkimese cast. He pointed out that the film's screening at internationally acclaimed festivals such as Busan and San Sebastián was a matter of pride for Sikkim.

He further encouraged everyone to watch the film, stating that it provides insight into the expectations and pressures that women continue to face even in today's society. He remarked that when local artists strive to bring recognition to their community and culture, it becomes important for the people of the region to support them. He added that the success of films like Shape of Momo can create opportunities for many more aspiring filmmakers and artists in the future.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dean of Students affairs Dr.Yugal Kishore Khanal. He expressed his gratitude to Miss Tribeny Rai, the cast members, the organizers, faculty members, and students for their presence and contribution to the success of the event.