GUNYO CHOLO

Dev/Gulabi (Najir Husen), the only son of a retired Army General, is raised to follow in his father's footsteps. Desperate for his approval, he repeatedly tries to join the army but fails. As he struggles with his true identity, his father's frustration turns to fury when he discovers Gulabi's desire to become a trans woman, ultimately disowning him. Despite this, Dev is deeply loved by his mother, (Sanchita Luitel), who embraces him unconditionally. However, bound by tradition and fear of defying her husband, she remains silent, torn between her love for her child and loyalty to her husband. Heartbroken, Dev is banished from his village home and thrust into the harsh realities of city life in Kathmandu. There, she (Gulabi) finds solace in the trans community and becomes part of a family of sex-working trans women. Yet, in a society that refuses to accept them, they must constantly fight for recognition, dignity, and a place to call their own.  (Gunyo Cholo is a traditional dress worn by girls in the Nepali culture that marks the 'coming of age).

Director:  Samundra Bhatta

Producers:  V. Vansay Zanubon, p.g.a.   Aakash Budhathoki, p.g.a.

Executive Producers:   Rithy Panh   Steven Johnston   Jeffrey Waine

Writers:  Samundra Bhatta   Najir Husen   V. Vansay Zanubon

Music Composers:  Marcello De Francisci   Vocal by Lisa Gerrad

Filming Date:  Completed

Post-Production Date:  Completed

Release Date:   August 29, 2025

Filming Location:  Nepal

Distributor:  TBD