Sang Doma Tamang
Actor, Model
I am a newcomer in this industry and have yet to fully immerse myself in its dynamics. However, it’s impossible to ignore the prevalent disparities faced by senior female artists, both professionally and personally. The gender pay gap, particularly in financial compensation, persists despite the equal dedication and effort exerted by women in comparable roles alongside men. It’s disheartening to witness how male artists consistently command higher pay almost as if it’s an unwritten rule; this, despite the expertise and experience demonstrated by their female counterparts. This systemic inequality not only undermines the value of female artists but also perpetuates a cycle of marginalisation and undervaluation. As I embark on my journey in this field, I am determined to advocate for equity and fair treatment, challenging the norms that perpetuate such disparities.
Prasuna Dongol
Documentary Filmmaker, Coordinator, Kimff DocLab
In Nepal’s documentary filmmaking scene, women face notable inequalities that affect our participation and recognition. Despite the talent and potential contributions, female filmmakers face barriers such as limited access to funding, resources, and opportunities for skill development. Gender biases within the industry also result in women (including LGBTIAQ+) being overlooked for key roles in projects, both behind the camera and in decision-making positions. This lack of representation aggravates stereotypes and limits the diversity of voices and perspectives.
Women filmmakers in Nepal also grapple with systemic challenges such as societal expectations and cultural norms that prioritise traditional gender roles over professional pursuits. This not only affects their career advancement but also contributes to a culture of sexism and discrimination within the industry. The absence of support networks and mentorship programs tailored to the needs of women filmmakers further worsens these inequalities.
It is important to address these disparities with the collective efforts from stakeholders across the documentary filmmaking ecosystem, including government agencies, film institutions, production companies, and organisations. If all important stakeholders prioritise gender equity in funding allocation, promote inclusive hiring practices, and provide targeted support and mentorship for women filmmakers, Nepal can foster a more vibrant and diverse documentary landscape.
Rakshya Singh Rana
Film Director and Editor
There are indeed several inequalities that women face in the film industry. Not only at the national level but also in the international arena, we can see this. Firstly, women artists are not getting major roles in film as compared to male artists. Women get the same stereotype roles. Nowadays, we can see a few changes in some movies where female artists are given the main role, but in comparison to males, it is very nominal. Regarding payments, male artists are paid huge amounts in comparison to female artists. But being a female technician, I don’t have to face such payment issues; male and female technicians are equally paid without discrimination until today.
In the history of the Nepali film industry, the most commercially successful Nepali films are delivered by female directors like Deepa Shree Niraula, Jharana Thapa, and myself. In the film industry, males get more mileage in comparison to females, despite being hardworking and dedicated to their tasks. Females have to prove every time that they are capable of doing the task. I have been editing for 20 years, and there are inequalities for women in every sector, but hard work and dedication always pay off.
Samjhana Upreti Rauniar
Film Director
Other than the very obvious pay gap that exists, there is an inequality in the roles that women are prominently seen playing in the industry. Scripts written barely feature women in leading roles, and those stories that do have women as the main character rarely do well financially, prompting investors to shy away from such projects. This ends up with most women playing second fiddle to a man. The stories that do well with the public are also not the best at portraying women in a positive light, propagating negative social stereotypes.
The inequality in roles is not just limited to acting roles but also technical ones. You rarely find women in the industry in technical roles like light and sound. The largest numbers would probably be in make-up and costume design, very rarely in other fields. The number of women in such fields has undoubtedly increased, but you can still count the number of female directors on your fingers. The lack of women in such roles also results in a lot of new talent not seeing a technical job in the film industry as a possible career path for them, reducing the already sparse numbers of women in the film industry. This is all compounded by the volatility that all the technicians in the film industry generally experience. While it may look bleak, the situation is still a lot better than in the past.
Gaumaya
Co- Founder of SeeNepal, Optometrist, Actor
I looked up the word, ‘Inequality’: still refers to unequal distribution of wealth and opportunities. Women only recently had rights to parental property in Nepal. So, as we step out of our homes, we can do the maths. The film industry is no outlier.
Films in Nepal are predominantly written and produced by men, nearly 90% of the cast and crew are men. So, naturally, there are fewer roles, opportunities, and stories for and about women, and many are still told from a patriarchal lens. Most of our movies fail the “Bechdel Test” and women characters continue to be unidimensional, the damsel in distress or the unrealistic epitome of forgiveness. For us, women from indigenous communities, we are often stereotypically represented as rowdy, alcoholic, and husband-beaters. Excluding commercials, there is a huge pay disparity, and many actresses have voiced about it. I debuted from Kabaddi 4 in 2021, so I have not been around long. Despite the above remarks, my observation leaves me hopeful. The teams I have worked for have valued female input, and have been mindful of creating a gender inclusive workspace.
There, I have met fellow female filmmakers who are writers, directors, producers, production designers, casting directors. To name a few, Asha Magrati, Shanta Nepali, Tribeny Rai, Prasuna Dongol, Akanchha Karki, Pashupati Rai, Rajeela Shrestha and Shanti Rai. Coming across them has instilled in me the importance of women being in decision-making positions, of what gets written, and how it gets put out. This also inspired me to join Shildhan’s team as one of the co-producers. It is a short film by Kala Sangraula about how girls face gender inequality from birth. Fellow actresses have even started their own production houses. I eagerly await “Bokshi ko Ghar” by Keki Adhikari Films.
The alumni of Oscar International College and Kantipur Film Academy, their short films on caste, class, gender disparity, and identity crisis, have created waves at the international film festivals. They have been mindful of women and LGBTQ+ representation. That leaves me hopeful of opportunities and collaborations that lay ahead of us. For that to be feasible, the Nepali Film Board needs to be more proactive in promoting and encouraging the new filmmakers with grant schemes and space to kick start their filmmaking journey, so they can tell the stories that are due to be told.
Sampada Malla
Filmmaker
Having spent a decade immersed in the film industries of Nepal and Mumbai, I can confidently say that I have never experienced gender inequality or discrimination. My positive experience can be attributed to aligning myself with progressive-minded male colleagues. This leads me to believe that our society is progressing positively.
In the film industry, meritocracy reigns supreme; it’s a realm where talent and diligence are valued above all else. The film industry is ultimately a place where everyone wants talented and hardworking individuals who will benefit from the project.
Consequently, if a woman excels in her field, diligently selects her collaborators, and asserts herself when necessary, she can navigate her career without encountering any form of discrimination. This underscores the importance of fostering inclusive work environments where individuals are judged solely on their abilities and contributions, regardless of gender. As we continue to champion equality, I remain optimistic about the ongoing transformation within our society and industry.
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