The film "Elephants in the Fog" won the Un Certain Regard Jury Prize at the 79th Cannes Film Festival [1, 2].

This victory marks a historic milestone for Nepali cinema, as it is the first film from the country to win a prize at the prestigious French festival [1, 3].

Directed by Abhinash Bikram Shah, the film focuses on the stories of the marginalized Kinnar community [1, 3]. The production received critical acclaim during its screening in May 2024 [1].

Following its presentation, the film earned a standing ovation that lasted seven minutes [4]. The recognition highlights the global reach of storytelling centered on underrepresented groups, a theme central to Shah's work.

The Un Certain Regard section of the festival typically highlights films with non-traditional narratives or those that offer a unique perspective on the human condition [1]. By securing the Jury Prize, "Elephants in the Fog" has established a new precedent for South Asian filmmakers seeking international validation [1, 3].

Shah's achievement is being celebrated as a breakthrough for the Nepali film industry. The win provides a platform for other filmmakers from the region to showcase their work on a global stage, moving beyond regional distribution into the international spotlight [1, 3].

“The first Nepali film to win at Cannes”

This win signifies a shift in the global cinematic landscape, where narratives from previously overlooked regions like Nepal are gaining institutional recognition. By focusing on the Kinnar community, the film not only achieves artistic success but also brings international visibility to specific social marginalization within South Asia.