Popular Nepali comedy duo Sitaram Kattel, known as Dhurmus, and Kunjana Ghimire, known as Suntali, have produced a new comedy series in the United States.
The series, produced around Raleigh, North Carolina, focuses on the lives, experiences and challenges of Nepalis living in the United States. It is produced under Dhurmus-Suntali Media and will stream every Friday on the Dhurmus Suntali YouTube channel.
The program is scheduled to air at 8:15 p.m. Nepal time every Friday, while viewers in the United States can watch it at 10:30 a.m. Friday.
Filmed Across North Carolina
Kattel, who directed the series, said filming took place in Raleigh, Cary, Holly Springs, High Point and Greensboro, North Carolina.
The title comes from one of Dhurmus’ popular catchphrases from his earlier comedy work. Kattel and Ghimire will reprise their signature characters, Dhurmus and Suntali.
Senior comedian Mohan Mishra also appears in a leading role. Mishra, known as an actor and director for popular comedy programs including Hosh Prasad and Mr. Funtus, is returning to acting after a long break.
Cast and Crew
The cast includes Dinesh Karki, Shankar Raj Wagle, Sanyam Lamichhane, Monika Chaulagai, Chuda Dhimal, Dharma Bharati and Subhadra Acharya.
The series also marks the acting debut of Kattel and Ghimire’s daughter, Subihani Kattel, as a child performer. Veteran Nepali film actor Jeevan Luitel, who lives in the United States, will make a guest appearance after a lengthy break from the screen.
Raju KC handled cinematography. Ashish Aviral provided vocals, Prakash Punj wrote the lyrics, Rajendra Bajgai composed the music and Rajendra Manandhar edited the series.
Focus on Nepali Diaspora Life
The production team said the series will go beyond entertainment, using comedy and satire to portray the realities of Nepali immigrant life in the United States.
The story explores Nepalis’ struggles, opportunities, achievements and daily experiences abroad, as well as the Nepali community’s social and cultural environment. It addresses language barriers, cultural adjustment, work and business experiences, family relationships, the views of younger generations and efforts to preserve Nepali identity.
Madhav Dhakal, a former Nepali film producer and businessman based in High Point, North Carolina, praised the pair for pursuing regular creative work while living abroad.
“Starting regular artistic work from abroad is itself commendable,” Dhakal said. “It is not an ordinary matter for Sitaram ji to continue in this field. We will all provide our support and cooperation.”
Since moving to the United States, Kattel and Ghimire have remained active in media production, producing advertisements for about a dozen Nepali businesses and organizations. Kattel said additional advertisements and music videos are currently being filmed and produced.
“Our viewers will now be able to watch our serial regularly,” Kattel said. “Wherever we live, we want to convey the message that we can continue our art and creative work.”
Susan Shrestha
View More PostsSusan Shrestha is a Europe-based journalist. He covers a wide range of topics, from local matters to global affairs. Shrestha previously worked as a reporter for Khasokhas in Nepal.
