Nepal Creates History at Cannes 2026 with ‘Elephants in the Fog’

Nepali film “Elephants in the Fog” has become the first film from Nepal to win an award at the Cannes Film Festival, securing the Un Certain Regard Jury Prize at the 79th Cannes Film Festival (2026).

About the Film

• The film is written and directed by Abinash Bikram Shah in his feature-film debut.
• It is also the first Nepali film selected in the Un Certain Regard section, which showcases innovative storytelling and emerging filmmakers.
• The story is set in Thori, a forested village in Nepal’s Terai region.
• It follows the lives of transgender women (Kinnar community) living on the margins of society and explores themes of identity, dignity, belonging and social inclusion.

What is ‘Un Certain Regard’?

• Un Certain Regard is an official section of the Cannes Film Festival.
• It runs parallel to the main competition for the Palme d’Or.
• The section highlights:
  • Unique artistic visions.
  • Emerging directors.
  • Experimental and socially relevant cinema.

Why is the Achievement Significant?

• It marks a historic milestone for Nepali cinema on the global stage.
• The award brings international attention to stories from South Asia and underrepresented communities.
• It highlights the growing role of cinema as a medium for social inclusion, cultural expression and human rights awareness.
• The film is a multinational co-production involving Nepal, France, Germany, Brazil and Norway.

Exam Hook (Prelims)

Consider the following statements regarding the Cannes Film Festival:

1. It is held annually in France.
2. The Palme d’Or is the highest award of the festival.
3. Un Certain Regard is a section that promotes emerging filmmakers and distinctive storytelling.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

One-Line Wrap

The success of “Elephants in the Fog” at Cannes 2026 marks a watershed moment for Nepali cinema and demonstrates how regional stories can achieve global recognition through powerful and inclusive storytelling.

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