Albeit slow, Nepali cinema is evolving. While we have seen glimpses of progress in recent years, many films often fall short in areas like acting, storytelling, direction and cinematography. Sometimes, the film tends to bore the audience halfway, with many choosing to leave during intermission.

But occasionally, a film like ‘Oonko Sweater’ comes along and gives us new hope. At its heart is a gentle love story between Dharanidhar Kafle, a boy from the Kafle Bahun family, and Phool, a girl from the Gurung community. Set against the backdrop of rural eastern Nepal, the film highlights local customs and traditions. It offers a simple yet profound reflection on social realities, touching on casteism, class divides, and the weight of family lineage.

It wouldn’t be wrong to say that ‘Oonko Sweater’ has been one of the most anticipated Nepali films of recent times. Tracks like ‘Phool’ had many of us humming them long before the film’s release. Sujan Chapagain, the music director and one of the lead vocalists, has captured the audience’s hearts with his soulful voice, building excitement and emotional connection even before the film hit theatres.

Another standout from the film is the song ‘Kafle’, sung beautifully by Jhuma Limbu and Chapagain. The lyrics, melody, and mood perfectly align with the film’s storyline. The song has created excitement among audiences and has become a major draw.

Even during an early morning show, it was heartening to see a packed hall—viewers fully engaged, some even dancing in their seats as the song played on screen.

‘Oonko Sweater’, directed by Nabin Chauhan and presented by Artmandu, is a heartwarming portrayal of love and connection. The story revolves around Dharanidhar Kafle and Phool, brought to life by Bipin Karki and Miruna Magar. Known primarily for producing music videos, Artmandu takes a commendable step into feature filmmaking with this debut. Their debut presentation is praise-worthy, and Chauhan’s writing and direction deserve equal credit for such a grounded, emotionally rich narrative. For both the director and the production house, ‘Oonko Sweater’ marks the beginning of a creative journey.

The movie features a diverse cast, including dancer Alex Biswokarma, marking his acting debut. Pariksha Limbu also takes on a supporting role, contributing to the film’s overall narrative. Wilson Bikram Rai’s comic timing is praiseworthy—his presence on screen never fails to bring a smile. Sunil Pokharel, playing the father of Dharanidhar Kafle, delivers a solid performance, while Maotse Gurung adds depth to the film with his fine acting as Mit Buwa, Dharanidhar’s father figure.

The film is a gentle look at how society’s expectations shape people’s lives, and how some quietly resist them. Through its characters and setting, it shows how caste beliefs are still deeply rooted, especially among higher castes who are unwilling to let go of pride and tradition.

The simplicity of the cinematography complements the understated elegance of the film’s storyline, highlighting the warmth and authenticity of the characters. The rural settings are not just a backdrop but integral to the film’s tone, reflecting the characters’ struggles, hopes, and deep connections to the land. The film captures the region’s beauty, with shots of yaks grazing and the cold, foggy winters surrounding the hills. Such a breathtaking backdrop not only showcases Nepal’s diverse beauty but also makes every Nepali feel proud of their homeland’s scenic beauty.

Bipin Karki delivers a quietly powerful performance as Dharanidhar Kafle—an innocent, soft-spoken village man, a dutiful man from a Brahmin family who upholds tradition and carries the weight of familial responsibility. From his expressive eyes and subtle movements to the authenticity of his appearance, every aspect of his performance feels grounded in his character’s background. His shy yet warm smile, silent grief, and unwavering love make his portrayal deeply impactful.

Miruna Magar, as Phool, offers a lively contrast to Dharanidhar. Her mischievous and blunt nature adds playfulness to their dynamic. Magar’s elegance and depth in her role are commendable, and the chemistry between her and Karki, both appearing on screen together for the first time, adds a unique charm to the film. Their connection brings warmth and authenticity to the film.

The title ‘Oonko Sweater’ itself carries a deeper meaning. The sweater, knitted with love by a lover, becomes a metaphor for warmth and connection. Every stitch in the fabric of their story ties them together through moments of tenderness, loss, and longing, transforming an ordinary sweater into a profound symbol of affection.

The film beautifully captures a glimpse of the past, depicting a time when exchanging autograph books was common among friends. One particularly touching moment occurs when Phool shares her diary with Dharanidhar, asking him to write in it for her. As he begins with “Priya Phool,” the background music, his actions, and the sincerity in his words create a deeply emotional experience.

While I felt that the film's ending could have been different, as it wasn’t quite what I anticipated, it still provided a twist and added emotional depth. One particularly touching moment is when Dharanidhar and Phool are engaged in a conversation. When Phool asks what he would do if they didn’t end up together, Dharanidhar responds simply: he would build a beautiful house surrounded by flowers and wait for her. This scene carries profound symbolism—Phool’s name means ‘flower,’ and through this promise, Dharanidhar offers love and a lifelong remembrance shaped by her very essence. Their journey, marked by subtle gestures and unspoken emotions, reaches a turning point where societal expectations clash with personal desires.

Like every love story, ‘Oonko Sweater’ has its quiet beginning and heartfelt end. It tells an organic tale of love that many might have heard or seen, especially in a society still divided by caste and family lineage. The film offers a subtle yet powerful message: that love doesn’t always have to be loud or grand. Sometimes, it lies in the silent battles we fight—and sometimes lose—when social systems stand in the way. In the end, love is love.

The movie makes you laugh, cry, and connect with its characters. It draws you in with a sense of intimacy, making you feel like you’re living the story alongside them.

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Oonko Sweater

Director: Nabin Chauhan

Cast: Bipin Karki, Miruna Magar

Duration: 145 minutes

Year: 2025

Language: Nepali