Suicide rates and mental health issues have reached alarming levels in our society. Advocates have noted that it has become crucial to address these challenges with compassion and understanding. A new song titled ‘Bol Ukusmukus Bol’ (speak up against suffocation) aims to do just that.

The music video for ‘Bol Ukusmukus Bol’ premiered on Friday at Kunja Theatre, Thapagaun. The event also featured a panel discussion on mental health where advocates and mental health professionals gave their two cents on the rise of mental health issues in the country.

The discussion was led by journalist Janak Raj Sapkota who conversed with writer and mental health advocate Shiksha Risal, actor Rabindra Singh Baniya and psychiatrist Rishav Koirala. This was followed by the official screening of the music video.

Created by Pradeep Lama, choreographer of The NEXT (a Nepali dance crew based in Sydney), and singer and journalist Anup Ojha, the 10-minute-long video features encouraging lyrics and energetic dance moves. It concludes with messages from notable individuals like actor Hari Bansha Acharya, Dr Sanduk Ruit, actor Bijay Baral, blogger Lex Limbu and dancer Alex Bishwokarma.

The creators revealed that the overarching message of the project is: ‘Suicide is not a solution; life is a celebration.’ They hope the song will bring comfort and solace to those battling suffocation, anxiety, and mental exhaustion caused by modern lifestyles and it’s numerous pressures.

According to the director, the video is a fusion of captivating visuals and powerful choreography. It features 50 meticulously crafted dance moves co-choreographed by Lama and Kebika Khatri.

“Our project seeks to revolutionise our country’s music and video-making scene by offering a fresh perspective on storytelling,” says Lama.

‘Bol Ukusmukus Bol’ marks the third collaboration between Lama and Ojha. Before this, they worked together for ‘Wariko Dada Ma’ and ‘Sansarai Baimani.’

The video is produced by Bishnu Nepal, who also plays the lead role—a man considering suicide. As his sister and father realise his condition, they call upon his friends, who break into singing and dancing in order to give him the strength to overcome his adversity.

Through its compelling storytelling, the music video sheds light on triggers that may lead to thoughts of suicide, like academic failure, bullying, loss of job, relationship breakdowns, and a chronic sense of hopelessness.

“It emphasises the importance of opening up about one’s struggles and highlights the crucial role friends and family members play in helping individuals overcome such thoughts,” said Ojha. “We want to highlight the healing power of self-reflection for mental relief.”

Creators revealed that ‘Bol Ukusmukus Bol’ is an artistic endeavour that strives to positively impact society. At a time when suicide has become a pervasive and troubling issue—locally and globally—the project hopes to en conversations around mental health and encourage individuals to seek help and support.

“We will have succeeded if we are able to prevent a single person from succumbing to the darkness and remind them that life is worth celebrating,” concludes Lama.