The documentary film ‘Chasing the Dream’, directed by journalist Pradip Pokhrel, has been selected for the International Film Festival of Shimla in India. The festival will be held for three days, from August 14 to 16, in Himachal Pradesh.

According to Festival Director Pushparaj Thakur, this year’s film festival marks its 10th edition. This edition will feature films, documentaries, and short films from many countries, including Nepal, India, the USA, the UK, New Zealand, France, Korea, Iran, Turkey, Greece, Portugal, and Egypt. Hundreds of films and documentaries were submitted for the festival.

According to Pokhrel, the documentary follows Lakpa Dhundup Lama, who returns to his village in Namrung, Gorkha, after nearly two decades abroad with a mission to develop local tourism and preserve culture. Having travelled to over 50 countries, he stays in his village, promoting tourism in the Manaslu region, building a Himalayan museum, and establishing the Nubri Four Season Resort to showcase local art and culture.

He also initiated a large-scale apple tree-planting campaign to combat climate change. He created jobs and demonstrated the potential for sustainable living in his community. The movie conveys that it is possible to earn a living while staying in the village. Such stories are included in ‘Chasing the Dream’.