The first cinema hall in Nepal, the history of cinema in Nepal traces back to the late 1940s. A time when the concept of public entertainment through films was still new to the nation. The establishment of the first cinema hall in 1949 marked the dawn of a new era in Nepali cultural life. This cinema hall, located at New Road, Kathmandu, became the focal point of movie screenings, providing a space for the general public to experience the magic of cinema for the first time.
According to historian Mark Liechty, the cinema hall was originally known as Janasewa. However, dramatist and author Krishna Shah (Yatri) offers a different account, noting that its initial name was Kathmandu Cinema Ghar. The name change to Janasewa occurred in 1951, when Daya Ram Bhakta Mathema took ownership of the hall, a significant moment that reflects the hall’s evolving identity.
The Influence of Indian Cinema and Governmental Pressure
The establishment of this cinema hall was not merely a business endeavor but also a response to external pressures and cultural exchanges. As Shah writes, during a visit to Hindustan (India) about a year before the 1951 democratic revolution in Nepal, Prime Minister Mohan Shumsher was informed by Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru that Nepal lacked cinema halls. This information, coupled with reports from Indian journalists criticizing Nepal for depriving its public of such facilities, led Mohan Shumsher to take action.
Businessman Shyam Shankar Shrestha, who had developed a deep interest in films during his visits to India, became a key figure in this endeavor. Recognizing Shrestha’s passion, Mohan Shumsher granted him permission to establish the cinema hall. This move was also a strategic one, aimed at addressing the criticisms and enhancing public welfare.
The Role of Shyam Shankar Shrestha and the Government
The cinema hall was established in what was originally a Town Hall built by Juddha Shumsher for entertainment purposes. This Town Hall was later transformed into Kathmandu Cinema Ghar, the first cinema hall in Nepal. Shyam Shankar Shrestha played a pivotal role in the development of the hall, providing 75% of the investment, while the government contributed the remaining 25%. This collaboration between a passionate businessman and the government marked a significant step towards modernizing Nepal’s entertainment industry.
The first film ever shown at this historic cinema hall was Ram Viva, a Hindi film, symbolizing the strong cultural ties between Nepal and India during that period.
A Cultural Milestone
The creation of the first cinema hall in Nepal was more than just the introduction of a new form of entertainment; it was a cultural milestone that paved the way for the growth of the Nepali cinema industry. From its initial days as Kathmandu Cinema Ghar to its rebranding as Janasewa, this cinema hall represents the beginning of a cinematic journey that continues to evolve and thrive in Nepal today.
The legacy of this first cinema hall extends beyond its walls. It represents the determination of individuals like Shyam Shankar Shrestha, whose passion for cinema helped bring this dream to life, and the government’s recognition of cinema as a vital aspect of cultural development. This collaboration between the public and private sectors set a precedent for future projects in the entertainment industry and highlighted the importance of cultural infrastructure in nation-building.
Today, as Nepalese cinema continues to evolve, the first cinema hall stands as a testament to the country’s rich cinematic heritage. It reminds us of the journey that began in 1949, a journey that has since seen the growth of countless filmmakers, actors, and cinema lovers. The spirit of innovation, collaboration, and cultural pride that fueled the creation of Kathmandu Cinema Ghar continues to inspire the Nepali film industry, making it a significant part of the nation’s cultural identity.
