Renowned multimedia journalist Shyam Karki, known for his expertise in documentary filmmaking, has recently achieved international recognition with his Nepali documentary titled ‘Wildfire’ (Dadhelo). The film has not only garnered prestigious awards but has also generated significant buzz within the country.

Karki’s documentary sheds light on the devastating impact of 60 forest fires that engulfed Nepali forests in 2021, specifically highlighting the effects on endangered animals, including the red panda. The film also emphasizes the profound influence of climate change on both animal and human life.

The documentary’s success story began at an international film festival held in Mauritius, where Karki was felicitated with the esteemed Best Documentary Award. The festival served as a platform for filmmakers from around the world, including Nepal, to showcase their exceptional works. Karki’s commendable efforts not only made his country proud but also showcased the global significance of Nepal’s environmental challenges.

‘Wildfire’ continued to garner accolades as it received an Honorable Mention Award at the Australian Film Festival (Dare to Struggle). This recognition further solidified the documentary’s impact and shed light on the urgent need to address the issues of deforestation and climate change.

Closer to home, the film gained significant attention at the Kathmandu Mountain Film Festival (KIMFF), where it secured the second position in the climate change category. KIMFF, an annual event attracting filmmakers, enthusiasts, critics, and scholars, provided a platform for ‘Wildfire’ to captivate audiences and raise awareness about the environmental challenges faced by Nepal and the world.

Shyam Karki’s passion for documentary filmmaking spans nearly two decades, and ‘Wildfire’ stands as a testament to his dedication and expertise. Produced under his own home banner, Samson Film Production, the documentary has received recognition at over 30 film festivals, captivating audiences from India to abroad.

The success of ‘Wildfire’ not only showcases the talent and skill of Shyam Karki but also highlights the importance of addressing environmental issues through the powerful medium of documentary filmmaking. The film serves as a wake-up call, urging society to take action against deforestation, climate change, and their far-reaching consequences.

As Shyam Karki’s ‘Wildfire’ continues to make waves internationally and captivate domestic audiences, it inspires hope for a future where the power of film can drive positive change, fostering a deeper understanding of our interconnectedness with the natural world.

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