Nepalese cinema is set to take a bold leap into the otherworldly with Eklo I, a high-stakes sci-fi thriller arriving in theaters on 1 January 2026 (Poush 17). Directed and written by Pradeep Shahi, the film promises a gripping tale of survival, myth, and betrayal – all set against the backdrop of a broken, post-apocalyptic Earth.

A Story of Astronauts, Zombies & Ancient Prophecy

In Eklo-1, two astronauts crash-land on an Earth ravaged by chaos, disease, and the supernatural. As they navigate a hazardous new world, they stumble upon a hidden mountain kingdom in the Himalayas, where undead creatures roam, and an ancient prophecy threatens to reshape their fates. Amid survival and treachery, they must decide who to trust – even as their own identities and destinies are tested.

Star-Studded Cast Anchors the Vision

The film brings together some of Nepali cinema’s biggest names alongside international talent:

• Pradeep Khadka plays Kalki, the weary but unbroken survivor, struggling to lead in a world turned upside down.
• Vijay Lama stars as Bhisma, another key figure whose path intersects with Kalki’s in profound ways.
• Kabita Nepali as Ariel, makes her presence felt in a pivotal role.
• Jamie Bacon, known for his work in UK TV and film, also features as Zach one of the leading characters.
• Benisha Hamal appears in a glamorous but dangerous avatar as Queen Mara.
• Veteran actor Sunil Thapa rounds out the ensemble as King Yama, a calculating and ruthless ruler.

Behind the Camera: Grand Vision, Big Challenges

Pradeep Shahi, whose earlier films include 1915: Legend of the Gurkha and Antim Sanskar, is leading what he calls a “Hollywood-level sci-fi” project, merging Western spectacle with Eastern mysticism. The scale and ambition of the production have become a talking point – this movie is not like any other average Nepali drama.

Going Global: Cannes & International Ambitions

Eklo I is not just making waves in Nepal. The film’s creators brought it to the 2025 Cannes Film Market (Marché du Film), making history: it’s one of the first Nepali features to set up its own stall to pitch to distributors and producers worldwide.

Director Shahi was also selected to join the Cannes Producers Network – a strong signal of the production’s ambition and international reach. Several foreign buyers have already expressed their interest, including from the U.S., Japan, and India.

Release & Anticipation

According to its official teaser, Eklo I is scheduled to be released on January 1, 2026, corresponding to Poush 17 in the Nepali calendar. The teaser itself teases a fierce, visually rich world – one that balances high-octane action with spiritual and mythical themes.

For fans of Nepali cinema, Eklo I could be a watershed moment – part genre experiment, part cultural odyssey, and part global pitch. If successful, it may well reshape how Nepali stories are told on the big screen.

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