During the search, Rabindra suffers a serious accident involving his cart, which not only damages his main source of income but also worsens his health. As he becomes increasingly ill, the couple faces mounting economic pressure, and their dreams of improving their living conditions begin to fade. Despite their efforts to remain hopeful, the relentless demands of survival force them to confront harsh realities, testing their ideals and relationship.
During the search, Rabindra suffers a serious accident involving his cart, which not only damages his main source of income but also worsens his health. As he becomes increasingly ill, the couple faces mounting economic pressure, and their dreams of improving their living conditions begin to fade. Despite their efforts to remain hopeful, the relentless demands of survival force them to confront harsh realities, testing their ideals and relationship.
The film explores the challenges faced by those living on the margins of urban society, portraying the impact of poverty, caste-based discrimination, and social marginalization on everyday life. Through Rabindra and Sarita’s struggle, the narrative highlights the resilience of marginalized communities and the social barriers that limit their opportunities.<ref>{{cite news |title=”Aankh” declared Best Film in Malaysia|publisher=Kantipur Correspondent|date=December 21, 2082|url=https://ekantipur.com/entertainment/2025/12/07/aankha-declared-best-film-in-malaysia-33-03.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawPr7HdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEek9XIfsBAWbMer0pjgaVB5gNs8rYkYA7XfTfxIX-2m1XQoyWxH6g5FzLm2Ws_aem_2e9iMWr-yMdsdBnuO7NHUA|access-date=December 21, 2082|work=Kantipur}}</ref>
The film explores the challenges faced by those living on the margins of urban society, portraying the impact of poverty, caste-based discrimination, and social marginalization on everyday life. Through Rabindra and Sarita’s struggle, the narrative highlights the resilience of marginalized communities and the social barriers that limit their opportunities.<ref>{{cite news |title=”Aankh” declared Best Film in Malaysia|publisher=Kantipur Correspondent|date=December 21, 2082|url=https://ekantipur.com/entertainment/2025/12/07/aankha-declared-best-film-in-malaysia-33-03.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawPr7HdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEek9XIfsBAWbMer0pjgaVB5gNs8rYkYA7XfTfxIX-2m1XQoyWxH6g5FzLm2Ws_aem_2e9iMWr-yMdsdBnuO7NHUA|access-date=December 21, 2082|work=Kantipur}}</ref>
== Cast ==
== Cast ==
== Production ==
== Production ==
The film was written, directed, and produced by Zaun Yonzan, who aimed to portray the realities of life in Kathmandu’s marginalized communities through a socially realistic narrative.<ref>{{cite news |title=”Aankh” declared Best Film in Malaysia|publisher=Kantipur Correspondent|date=December 21, 2082|url=https://ekantipur.com/entertainment/2025/12/07/aankha-declared-best-film-in-malaysia-33-03.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawPr7HdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEek9XIfsBAWbMer0pjgaVB5gNs8rYkYA7XfTfxIX-2m1XQoyWxH6g5FzLm2Ws_aem_2e9iMWr-yMdsdBnuO7NHUA|access-date=December 21, 2082|work=Kantipur}}</ref> Principal photography took place in various slum locations in Kathmandu to authentically capture the living conditions and environment of the characters. The production faced logistical challenges associated with shooting in densely populated areas, including limited access to infrastructure, crowd control, and maintaining continuity in unpredictable settings.
The film was written, directed, and produced by Zaun Yonzan, who aimed to portray the realities of life in Kathmandu’s marginalized communities through a socially realistic narrative.<ref =/> Principal photography took place in various slum locations in Kathmandu to authentically capture the living conditions and environment of the characters. The production faced logistical challenges associated with shooting in densely populated areas, including limited access to infrastructure, crowd control, and maintaining continuity in unpredictable settings.
The production emphasized naturalistic filmmaking techniques, such as using available light and Props to create a documentary-like aesthetic. Actors participated in workshops and rehearsals prior to filming, allowing them to immerse themselves in the community and better understand the physical and emotional demands of their roles. The film’s production design prioritized authenticity, using real locations and props instead of constructed sets, while the costume and makeup departments aimed to reflect the realities of poverty without glamorization.
The production emphasized naturalistic filmmaking techniques, such as using available light and Props to create a documentary-like aesthetic. Actors participated in workshops and rehearsals prior to filming, allowing them to immerse themselves in the community and better understand the physical and emotional demands of their roles. The film’s production design prioritized authenticity, using real locations and props instead of constructed sets, while the costume and makeup departments aimed to reflect the realities of poverty without glamorization.
== Release ==
== Release ==
The film was released theatrically across Nepal on 27 September 2024. Shortly after release, screenings were temporarily suspended due to heavy rainfall, floods, and landslides affecting the country. <ref>{{cite news |title=Friday release: ‘Aankha’ premiere across Nepal|url=https://english.ratopati.com/story/34961|work=Ratopati|date=27 September 2024}}</ref> <ref>{{cite news |title=बाढीपहिरोको कारण ‘आँखा’ को प्रदर्शन स्थगित|url=https://www.nepalpress.com/2024/09/30/516706/|work=Nepal Press|date=30 September 2024}}</ref>
The film was released theatrically across Nepal on 27 September 2024. Shortly after release, screenings were temporarily suspended due to heavy rainfall, floods, and landslides affecting the country. <ref>{{cite news |title=Friday release: ‘Aankha’ premiere across Nepal|url=https://english.ratopati.com/story/34961|work=Ratopati|date=27 September 2024}}</ref> <ref>{{cite news |title=बाढीपहिरोको कारण ‘आँखा’ को प्रदर्शन स्थगित|url=https://www.nepalpress.com/2024/09/30/516706/|work=Nepal Press|date=30 September 2024}}</ref>
== Reception ==
== Reception ==
The film received recognition at various film festivals. It won Best National Feature Film at the 8th Nepal International Film Festival (NIFF) 2025, along with awards for Best Screenwriter and Best Actor. <ref>{{cite news |title=WINNERS at Nepal International Film Festival (NIFF) 2025!|url=https://niff.org.np/news/nepal-international-film-festival-niff-2025-celebrating-cinematic-excellence/|work=Nepal International Film Festival|access-date=2026-02-01}}</ref> It also received international recognition at the International Police Arts Award Film Festival in Italy and the Seoul International Webfest 2025. <ref>{{cite news |title=”Aankha” shines at Int’l film festivals, wins award at Seoul International Webfest 2025|work=myRepublica|date=2 August 2025|url=https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/aankha-shines-at-intl-film-festivals-wins-award-at-seoul-international-webf-73-88.html}}</ref>
The film received recognition at various film festivals. It won Best National Feature Film at the 8th Nepal International Film Festival (NIFF) 2025, along with awards for Best Screenwriter and Best Actor. <ref>{{cite news |title=WINNERS at Nepal International Film Festival (NIFF) 2025!|url=https://niff.org.np/news/nepal-international-film-festival-niff-2025-celebrating-cinematic-excellence/|work=Nepal International Film Festival|access-date=2026-02-01}}</ref> It also received international recognition at the International Police Arts Award Film Festival in Italy and the Seoul International Webfest 2025. <ref>{{cite news |title=”Aankha” shines at Int’l film festivals, wins award at Seoul International Webfest 2025|work=myRepublica|date=2 August 2025|url=https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/aankha-shines-at-intl-film-festivals-wins-award-at-seoul-international-webf-73-88.html}}</ref>
== Accolades ==
== Accolades ==
== References ==
== References ==
<references><ref name=”auto5″/> <ref name=”auto3″>{{cite web |title=Crawling Crows – Aankha – FilmFreeway|url=https://filmfreeway.com/CrawlingCrows-Aankha|publisher=FilmFreeway|access-date=2026-02-01}}</ref> <ref name=”auto3″/> <ref name=”auto1″/> <ref name=”auto”/> <ref name=”auto4″/> <ref name=”auto2″/> <ref name=”auto5″/> <ref name=”auto3″/> <ref name=”auto3″/></references>
<references><ref>{{cite news |title=”Aankh” declared Best Film in Malaysia|publisher=Kantipur Correspondent|date=December 21, 2082|url=https://ekantipur.com/entertainment/2025/12/07/aankha-declared-best-film-in-malaysia-33-03.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawPr7HdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEek9XIfsBAWbMer0pjgaVB5gNs8rYkYA7XfTfxIX-2m1XQoyWxH6g5FzLm2Ws_aem_2e9iMWr-yMdsdBnuO7NHUA|access-date=December 21, 2082|work=Kantipur}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web |title=Crawling Crows – Aankha – FilmFreeway|url=https://filmfreeway.com/CrawlingCrows-Aankha|publisher=FilmFreeway|access-date=2026-02-01}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web |title=Crawling Crows – Aankha – FilmFreeway|url=https://filmfreeway.com/CrawlingCrows-Aankha|publisher=FilmFreeway|access-date=2026-02-01}}</ref> <ref>{{cite news |title=Friday release: ‘Aankha’ premiere across Nepal|url=https://english.ratopati.com/story/34961|work=Ratopati|date=27 September 2024}}</ref> <ref>{{cite news |title=बाढीपहिरोको कारण ‘आँखा’ को प्रदर्शन स्थगित|url=https://www.nepalpress.com/2024/09/30/516706/|work=Nepal Press|date=30 September 2024}}</ref> <ref>{{cite news |title=WINNERS at Nepal International Film Festival (NIFF) 2025!|url=https://niff.org.np/news/nepal-international-film-festival-niff-2025-celebrating-cinematic-excellence/|work=Nepal International Film Festival|access-date=2026-02-01}}</ref> <ref>{{cite news |title=”Aankha” shines at Int’l film festivals, wins award at Seoul International Webfest 2025|work=myRepublica|date=2 August 2025|url=https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/aankha-shines-at-intl-film-festivals-wins-award-at-seoul-international-webf-73-88.html}}</ref> <ref>{{cite news |title=”Aankh” declared Best Film in Malaysia|publisher=Kantipur Correspondent|date=December 21, 2082|url=https://ekantipur.com/entertainment/2025/12/07/aankha-declared-best-film-in-malaysia-33-03.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawPr7HdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEek9XIfsBAWbMer0pjgaVB5gNs8rYkYA7XfTfxIX-2m1XQoyWxH6g5FzLm2Ws_aem_2e9iMWr-yMdsdBnuO7NHUA|access-date=December 21, 2082|work=Kantipur}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web |title=Crawling Crows – Aankha – FilmFreeway|url=https://filmfreeway.com/CrawlingCrows-Aankha|publisher=FilmFreeway|access-date=2026-02-01}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web |title=Crawling Crows – Aankha – FilmFreeway|url=https://filmfreeway.com/CrawlingCrows-Aankha|publisher=FilmFreeway|access-date=2026-02-01}}</ref></references>
== External links ==
== External links ==
Crawling crows – aankha
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| Crawling Crows (Aankha) | |
|---|---|
Theatrical release poster |
|
| आँखा | |
| Directed by | Zaun Yonzan |
| Written by | Zaun Yonzan |
| Screenplay by | Zaun Yonzan |
| Produced by | Zaun Yonzan |
| Starring | Smita Lamichane, R.K. Mehta, Buddhi Tamang, Pashupati Rai, Nisha Adhikari |
| Cinematography | Aalok Shukla |
| Edited by | Krishna Bhandari, Zaun yonzan |
| Music by | Ganga thapa |
|
Production |
Lama Cinemas Pvt.Ltd |
|
Release dates |
27 September, 2024 but postponed |
|
Running time |
109 |
| Country | Nepal |
| Language | Nepali |
| Budget | $35,000 |
Crawling Crows (Aankha) is a 2024 Nepali drama film written, directed, and produced by Zaun Yonzan. Set in the slums of Kathmandu, the film follows a newly married couple as they struggle with poverty, caste-based discrimination, and social hardship. The film was released theatrically in Nepal on 27 September 2024. It won the Best Film award at the 62nd Asia Pacific Film Festival in Kuala Lumpur in 2025, becoming the first ever Nepali feature film to receive the festival’s top prize.[1]
Plot
In the slums of Kathmandu, newly married couple Rabindra and Sarita struggle to survive amid persistent poverty and social exclusion. The two come from different castes, and their relationship is marked by the pressures of a society that continues to discriminate against inter-caste unions. Rabindra works as a waste picker, collecting and selling recyclable materials to support their household, while Sarita takes on cleaning and laundry work to supplement the family income.
The couple’s situation becomes more precarious when Sarita is threatened following a misunderstanding with a local resident. Fearing for their safety, she insists that they relocate to a safer and more stable living environment. Rabindra, determined to provide a better future for his wife, agrees, and the couple begins searching for affordable housing. However, their search is hindered by financial constraints and social stigma, as landlords are reluctant to accept them due to their caste and economic status.
During the search, Rabindra suffers a serious accident involving his cart, which not only damages his main source of income but also worsens his health. As he becomes increasingly ill, the couple faces mounting economic pressure, and their dreams of improving their living conditions begin to fade. Despite their efforts to remain hopeful, the relentless demands of survival force them to confront harsh realities, testing their ideals and relationship.
The film explores the challenges faced by those living on the margins of urban society, portraying the impact of poverty, caste-based discrimination, and social marginalization on everyday life. Through Rabindra and Sarita’s struggle, the narrative highlights the resilience of marginalized communities and the social barriers that limit their opportunities.[2]
Cast
Production
The film was written, directed, and produced by Zaun Yonzan, who aimed to portray the realities of life in Kathmandu’s marginalized communities through a socially realistic narrative.[2] Principal photography took place in various slum locations in Kathmandu to authentically capture the living conditions and environment of the characters. The production faced logistical challenges associated with shooting in densely populated areas, including limited access to infrastructure, crowd control, and maintaining continuity in unpredictable settings.
The production emphasized naturalistic filmmaking techniques, such as using available light and Props to create a documentary-like aesthetic. Actors participated in workshops and rehearsals prior to filming, allowing them to immerse themselves in the community and better understand the physical and emotional demands of their roles. The film’s production design prioritized authenticity, using real locations and props instead of constructed sets, while the costume and makeup departments aimed to reflect the realities of poverty without glamorization.
The sound design incorporated ambient city noise and street sounds to enhance realism, and the overall production sought to depict the social and economic struggles of marginalized communities in Kathmandu with sensitivity and accuracy.
Release
The film was released theatrically across Nepal on 27 September 2024. Shortly after release, screenings were temporarily suspended due to heavy rainfall, floods, and landslides affecting the country. [3] [4]
Reception
The film received recognition at various film festivals. It won Best National Feature Film at the 8th Nepal International Film Festival (NIFF) 2025, along with awards for Best Screenwriter and Best Actor. [5] It also received international recognition at the International Police Arts Award Film Festival in Italy and the Seoul International Webfest 2025. [6]
Accolades
the film won Best Film at the 62nd Asia Pacific Film Festival and also won awards at various other festivals.
| Award | Date | Category | Recipient | Result | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 62nd Asia Pacific Film Festival | 6 December 2025 | Best Film | Crawling Crows – Aankha | won | [7] |
| International Police Award Arts Festival (IPAAF) | 1 July 2025 | Best Drama Film | Crawling Crows – Aankha | won | [8] |
| International Police Award Arts Festival (IPAAF) | 1 July 2025 | Best Actress Long | Smita Lamichane | Won | [8] |
| Nepal International Film Festival | 21 March 2025 | Best Feature Film | Crawling Crows – Aankha | won | [9] |
| Nepal International Film Festival | 21 March 2025 | Best Screenwriter | Zaun Yonzan | won | [9] |
| Nepal International Film Festival | 21 March 2025 | Best Lead Actor | RK mehta | Won | [9] |
| Nawada International Film Festival | 2025 | Best Feature Film | Crawling Crows – Aankha | Won | [9] |
| Nawada International Film Festival | 2025 | Best Male Director | Zaun Yonzan | Won | [9] |
| 11th Seoul International Webfest | 31 July 2025 | Best Cinematography in a Feature Film | Aalok Shukla | Won | [10] |
References
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