Cannes Film Festival 2026 | Nepal’s Abinash Bikram Shah: My goal is to change from ‘they’ to ‘we’
In 2022, Nepalese filmmaker Abinash Bikram Shah earned a Special Jury Mention at the Cannes Film Festival for his poignant short film Lori. Now, Shah is making history once again by debuting his first feature film, Elephants in the Fog, on one of the world’s most prestigious cinematic stages. This film marks a significant milestone, not only for Shah’s career but also for the representation of Nepal’s marginalized trans community in global cinema.
Breaking New Ground at Cannes
Elephants in the Fog explores the complex realities faced by transgender individuals living in Nepal. Unlike the brief format of his earlier work, this feature-length film delves deeply into themes of identity, societal acceptance, and resilience. By bringing these stories to the forefront, Shah challenges viewers to reconsider preconceived notions and expands the narrative diversity presented at Cannes.
From ‘Them’ to ‘Us’
Shah’s own commentary about his work reflects a transformative goal: “My aim is to move from ‘them’ to ‘us’, bridging gaps of misunderstanding and exclusion.” This statement underscores his commitment to humanizing stories about marginalized communities, moving beyond mere representation toward genuine empathy and inclusivity.
Impact on Nepalese Cinema and Society
Historically, Nepalese cinema has rarely addressed LGBTQ issues with such directness and sensitivity. Shah’s film is groundbreaking in providing visibility to the trans community, which continues to face social stigma and legal challenges in Nepal. By showcasing their stories on an international platform like Cannes, Shah hopes to foster dialogue and understanding both within Nepal and across the world.
This recognition also signals growing acceptance and interest in diverse narratives from South Asia, encouraging other filmmakers to explore underrepresented themes.
Looking Ahead
As the world watches Shah’s journey at Cannes, anticipation builds for the impact of Elephants in the Fog. The film’s selection for the festival’s lineup promises to open doors not only for Shah but for countless voices that remain unheard. Nepal’s burgeoning film industry stands to benefit from this newfound visibility, inspiring future projects that confront social issues with authenticity and courage.
In the wake of his Cannes achievements, Abinash Bikram Shah continues to champion stories that create connection and change, proving that cinema remains a powerful tool for social progress.
