Fireside

Kantipur Sounds
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Fireside is Kantipur Television's flagship talk show, airing every Monday at 9 PM. For over two decades, it has served as a trusted platform for in-depth discussions on Nepal’s most pressing socio-political issues. Hosted by renowned journalist Rupesh Shrestha, Chief of the News Department at Kantipur TV, Fireside features influential guests from political leaders to public figures who are held accountable through thoughtful and hard-hitting conversations.

  1. Oct 27

    Crafting Bir Kazi, Balancing Commercial Success, and the Future of Inclusive Cinema

    In the concluding part of this special series, Dayahang Rai breaks down the creation of his iconic 'Bir Kazi' character in Kabaddi, addresses criticisms of "over-signing" films, and discusses the growing inclusivity and cultural diversity of modern Nepali storytelling. In the second and final part of his Fireside conversation with Rupesh Shrestha, superstar actor Dayahang Rai takes listeners behind the scenes of his most memorable performances and examines the evolving landscape of Nepali cinema. Dayahang breaks down the technical and psychological craft behind 'Bir Kazi', the beloved protagonist of the Kabaddi franchise. He explains how immersing himself in Mustang's geography and Thakali culture shaped Bir Kazi's signature head-scratching mannerisms in moments of stress. Addressing industry critiques regarding "over-signing" and taking on too many film roles per year, Dayahang discusses the delicate balance between supporting emerging indie directors, meeting box-office demands, and preserving his artistic integrity through acclaimed international projects like Gaun Aayeko Baato and Seto Surya. Finally, he offers a vision for a truly democratic and inclusive film industry—where regional dialects from Far-West Deuda to Eastern Limbu traditions enrich the screen—and reflects on the lasting legacy he hopes to leave as an honest artist. Key Highlights: The Anatomy of Bir Kazi: How Mustang's landscape, Thakali culture, and character psychology birthed the iconic lead of Kabaddi. Addressing "Over-Signing": Managing production schedules, supporting new filmmakers, and protecting character distinctiveness. Art House vs. Box Office: Balancing commercial blockbusters with internationally acclaimed indie cinema (Gaun Aayeko Baato, Seto Surya). Democratizing Cinema: How stories from Madhesh, the Far West, and indigenous mountain communities are redefining national storytelling. Artistic Legacy: Why staying true to the craft matters more than temporary stardom or box-office numbers.

    Crafting Bir Kazi, Balancing Commercial Success, and the Future of Inclusive Cinema

  2. Oct 27

    Breaking the Mould: Dayahang Rai on Bhojpur, Gurukul Theatre, and Redefining the Nepali "Hero"

    In Part 1 of this two-part series, acclaimed actor Dayahang Rai shares his journey from a remote village in Bhojpur to the Gurukul Theatre stage, reflecting on his early struggles in Kathmandu, his breakthrough with Loot, and how he shattered traditional archetypes of heroism in Nepali cinema. Before becoming one of the most recognisable faces in contemporary Nepali cinema, Dayahang Rai left his roadless village in Bhojpur for Kathmandu, driven by a deep desire to express himself through literature and art. In Part 1 of this special two-part Fireside interview with Rupesh Shrestha, Dayahang reflects on his formative years—from his early search for artistic direction to joining National Nachghar and Gurukul theatre under mentors like Harihar Sharma and Anup Baral. He opens up about the gritty reality of his theatre days, carrying play tickets in his bag to sell at literary gatherings, and honing his camera presence through dummy telefilms. Dayahang also discusses the seismic shift caused by the release of Loot, which brought overnight public recognition and fundamentally altered his daily life. More importantly, he explores how his arrival—alongside a new generation of realistic storytellers—shattered the entrenched industry standard of the tall, fair, six-pack "hero," paving the way for authentic, grounded characters from every corner and culture of Nepal. Key Highlights: From Bhojpur to Kathmandu: Leaving a remote village to seek artistic freedom and enter the world of literature and theatre. The Gurukul & Nachghar Years: Learning the craft of acting under veteran mentors and the hustle of selling theatre tickets by hand. Camera Practice & Telefilms: Working on unreleased dummy telefilms to master screen acting and camera awareness. The Loot Impact: Coping with sudden stardom and navigating the psychological transition from anonymity to fame. Shattering the Hero Archetype: Breaking away from traditional, formulaic "hero" standards to bring real, diverse Nepali faces to mainstream cinema.

    Breaking the Mould: Dayahang Rai on Bhojpur, Gurukul Theatre, and Redefining the Nepali "Hero"

  3. Oct 8

    'Elephants in the Fog': Anup Poudel & Abinash Bikram Shah

    When Elephants in the Fog (तिनीहरू) earned a historic Un Certain Regard Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival, it drew a seven-minute standing ovation. It marked a watershed moment for Nepali cinema. But behind that international acclaim was a rigorous six-year journey that began back in 2020. In this episode of Fireside with Rupesh Shrestha, producer Anup Poudel and Director Abinash Bikram Shah break down the arduous path of bringing an independent Nepali story to the world stage. They share how a single script draft evolved through years of meticulous development, navigating complex international co-productions across five countries (including France, Germany, and Norway) without compromising their artistic vision. The producers discuss the delicate balance of representing marginalised community voices authentically while crafting a cinematic narrative that resonates with global audiences. Looking ahead, Poudel and Subedi outline an inspiring blueprint for the next generation of Nepali filmmakers: how to build world-class cinema, leverage international co-production markets, and prove that uncompromised, honest storytelling knows no geographical boundaries. Key Highlights: The 2020 Genesis: How six years of script development, rewriting, and strategic planning transformed an independent concept into a world-class film.The Cannes Triumph: Behind the scenes of winning the Un Certain Regard Jury Prize and putting Nepali cinema on the global festival map.Mastering International Co-Production: The logistics, financing, and creative rewards of partnering with producers across five nations.Authentic Storytelling: Portraying marginalised community experiences faithfully while connecting with universal human emotions.A Roadmap for Nepali Cinema: Key lessons for emerging filmmakers on navigating global markets, securing international funds, and elevating

    'Elephants in the Fog': Anup Poudel & Abinash Bikram Shah

  4. Sep 29

    Dr Gunakar Bhatta (Vice-Chairman, National Planning Commission)

    Two weeks after the catastrophic Bhote Koshi flash floods, initial rapid assessments reveal a staggering NPR 408 billion in total damage and losses, displacing over 33,000 citizens and destroying more than 7,600 homes. Beyond the immediate humanitarian response lies a monumental challenge: how will the state mobilise the NPR 700+ billion required for long-term, climate-resilient reconstruction? In this episode of Fireside with Rupesh Shrestha, Dr Gunakar Bhatta, Vice-Chairman of the National Planning Commission (NPC), breaks down the state’s recovery blueprint. He explains the key distinction between direct physical infrastructure damage (NPR 274B) and ongoing economic losses (NPR 134B), and details the 6-sector Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) framework being prepared under a strict 1-month timeline. Furthermore, Dr Bhatta addresses strategic long-term measures: relocating vulnerable settlements, opening alternative northern trade corridors with China (Korala, Kimathanka, Taaklakot) to reduce supply-chain vulnerability, accounting for Human Capital Loss, and integrating post-disaster recovery directly into Nepal's Long-Term Development Vision 2050. Key Highlights: Deconstructing NPR 408 Billion: Differentiating physical infrastructure destruction (NPR 274B) from ongoing economic and revenue losses (NPR 134B).The 1-Month PDNA Framework: Evaluating 6 core sectors (Infrastructure, Productive, Social, Environmental, Macroeconomic, and Governance) to prepare for donor mobilisation.Financing NPR 700+ Billion: Mobilising domestic bank liquidity ($25B+ excess), private sector BOOT models, and international concessional financing.Asserting Climate Justice: Why Nepal must demand climate compensation and non-repayable grant funding on international platforms based on its zero-emission, 46% forest cover contribution.Diversifying Northern Trade Corridors: Strategic dialogue and infrastructure development to operationalise alternative Chinese trade points (Korala, Kimathanka, Taaklakot) alongside Rasuwagadhi.Human Capital Loss & Vision 2050: Accounting for lost skilled manpower (engineers, drivers, entrepreneurs) and embedding climate resilience into Nepal's 30-year development strategy.

    Dr Gunakar Bhatta (Vice-Chairman, National Planning Commission)

  5. Sep 18

    Fireside Legacy: Prachanda on Political Upheaval, Coalition Shifts, and Good Governance

    Note to listeners: This episode is part of the 'Fireside Legacy' archive series, recorded at Baluwatar on March 18, 2024 (Chaitra 5, 2080), when Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' served as Prime Minister. In March 2024, after completing one year in office, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' made a dramatic political shift by ending his alliance with the Nepali Congress and forming a new governing coalition with CPN-UML and the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). In this candid Fireside interview with Rupesh Shrestha, Prachanda unpacks the internal frictions that led to the decision, including electoral vote-transfer failures, the Koshi Province leadership crisis, and ideological divergences at the NC Mahasamiti meeting over secularism and the peace process. Addressing critics who label him "unstable" and "opportunistic," Prachanda provides a philosophical defence of his dynamic leadership style, famously declaring, "As long as I live, there will be upheaval in this country". He argues that taking calculated risks and adjusting course is essential to safeguard republicanism, federalism, and social justice. Key Highlights: The Anatomy of a Coalition Shift: Why the 2023–2024 alliance with Nepali Congress broke down over Koshi Province politics, vote transfers, and NC Mahasamiti debates.The "Upheaval" Philosophy: Prachanda’s response to accusations of political instability and his belief in continuous dynamic political evolution.

    Fireside Legacy: Prachanda on Political Upheaval, Coalition Shifts, and Good Governance

  6. Sep 15

    Om Prakash Aryal: From Street Activist to Home Minister & The Warning Against "Digital Fascism"

    Marking one year since the historic Gen Z Movement of Bhadra 2082 and amid the recent Rasuwa Bhote Koshi flash floods, former Home Minister and Senior Advocate Om Prakash Aryal joins Fireside with Rupesh Shrestha. Aryal reflects on his extraordinary 365-day cycle, from an anti-corruption campaigner on the streets to Home Minister facilitating a historic election, then back to his legal practice in the courtroom. In this deep-dive interview, Aryal discusses the implementation of the Karki Commission Report, the organised violence and "bullet biker" infiltration of Bhadra 24, the legalities surrounding the detention of former PM KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, and former Chief Justice Sushila Karki’s "motherly" guardianship during the political transition. Most significantly, Aryal issues a stern warning to Prime Minister Balen Shah and the current administration regarding "Digital Fascism": ruling through online fear, character assassination, and social media intimidation creates a dangerous environment where those in power ultimately become fascism's final victims. Key Highlights: The 365-Day Transformation: Navigating the roles of a street campaigner, interim Home Minister facilitating elections, and practicing advocate. The Karki Commission & Bhadra 24 Vandalism: Unpacking the investigation into organised infiltration, state vacuum, and the mystery of the "bullet bikers." Rule of Law & Due Process: Legal scrutiny over the detention of former PM KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak without formal charges. Leadership in Crisis: Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki’s role as an interim "motherly" guardian preserving constitutional continuity. Disaster Response & Human Dignity: Evaluating state coordination in the Rasuwa flash flood aftermath and why governance must centre on equal citizenship. The Danger of "Digital Fascism": Why using social media algorithms, intimidation, and character assassination as tools of statecraft inevitably consumes the rulers

    Om Prakash Aryal: From Street Activist to Home Minister & The Warning Against "Digital Fascism"

  7. Sep 8

    Manish Jha: The 'Internal Critic' and the Symbol of 'Black Sunglasses'

    Guest: Manish Jha, Member of Parliament, Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). Recording/Broadcast Period: August 2026 (Shrawan 2083) Episode Description: In the aftermath of the Falgun 2082 general elections, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) finds itself in an unprecedented position of power, commanding a near two-thirds majority. However, despite this massive mandate, the government faces significant "turbulence" in service delivery and economic stability. In this revealing episode of Fireside, RSP’s own MP Manish Jha steps into the role of the "internal opposition". Known for his data-driven and logical arguments, Jha deconstructs why the government he represents is struggling to meet public expectations. From the famous "Black Sunglasses" metaphor, challenging the Prime Minister to step out of his VIP bubble and see the ground reality, to the controversial role of non-state actors within the Prime Minister's secretariat, Jha offers a candid post-mortem of the administration's first few months. Jha also addresses internal party dynamics, revealing for the first time why he voluntarily declined a ministerial post and how a lack of consultative discussion is leaving top leadership "lonely at the peak". Key Highlights: The "Turbulence" Realisation: Why Jha believes that if the "plane" of government is still shaking after four months, it’s time to check the engine or the route. Deconstructing Institutional Decay: A critique of "childish" government tactics, such as using vehicles to block media houses, and the constitutional risks of non-state actors. The Consultation Gap: A deep dive into why the RSP leadership must move from individual heroism to institutional strength to avoid the mistakes of past administrations. Madhesh: Smouldering Logs: Jha’s analysis of the recent social tensions in Madhesh, warning the state that while the "visible fire" might be out, the "logs are still smouldering".

    Manish Jha: The 'Internal Critic' and the Symbol of 'Black Sunglasses'

  8. Sep 8

    Rebellion within the Nepali Congress and a New Destination

    Guest: Pradip Poudel, General Secretary, Nepali Congress Recording Date: August 6, 2026 (Shrawan 22, 2083) Is the Nepali Congress truly united, or was the "Special General Convention" actually the seed of a party split?. Following a significant defeat in the Falgun 2082 (February/March 2026) general elections, the main opposition party is currently embroiled in internal conflict and dissatisfaction. While a new generation of leadership has emerged, older leaders accuse them of trying to "toss the party off a cliff in a basket. In this episode of Fireside, General Secretary Pradip Poudel discusses the "legitimate rebellion" within the party, the controversy surrounding President Gagan Thapa’s resignation, and his efforts to bring the party back on the "right track". We explore the growing distance between the descendants of BP Koirala and the new generation, the accusations of a "two-man show," and the potential for a new ideological direction known as "Gagan-ism". Key Highlights: The Special General Convention: Was this move a new, legitimate democratic practice or a planned attempt to split the party?. Defeat and Accountability: Why was Gagan Thapa’s resignation not accepted after the election loss?. Generational Power Struggle: Are senior leaders being disrespected? Poudel addresses tensions between the party headquarters in Sanepa and the disgruntled faction's separate gatherings. Ideological Shift: Is the party moving away from "Democratic Socialism" toward "Social Democracy" or a new "ism"?.

    Rebellion within the Nepali Congress and a New Destination
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About

Fireside is Kantipur Television's flagship talk show, airing every Monday at 9 PM. For over two decades, it has served as a trusted platform for in-depth discussions on Nepal’s most pressing socio-political issues. Hosted by renowned journalist Rupesh Shrestha, Chief of the News Department at Kantipur TV, Fireside features influential guests from political leaders to public figures who are held accountable through thoughtful and hard-hitting conversations.

Information

  • Creator
    Kantipur Sounds
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © kantipursounds2024
  • Show Website
    Fireside

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