Gopal Kaji Kayastha   

Movie's Credit : Cast / Producer / Distributor

Kayastha began his early education in Bhaktapur and later studied at Padmodaya High School, then Juddhodaya High School, Kathmandu. After completing his SLC from Juddhodaya High School, he pursued higher education at Saraswati Campus, Kathmandu.

During his early years, Ranjana Cinema, located in New Road, Kathmandu, was a popular movie theater. Within its premises, Kayastha started a cold store, having an interest in business from an early age. He gained recognition for serving coffee, which became widely popular across Kathmandu. Many renowned figures from the Nepalese film industry frequently visited his shop. Through these interactions, he developed close connections with filmmakers. His meetings with celebrated personalities like B.S. Thapa and Prakash Thapa further sparked his interest in cinema.

At that time, Nepali films were produced in limited numbers, and most became instant hits. However, since the domestic film industry alone could not sustain the market, foreign films were also screened. In 2039 B.S., Kayastha collaborated with Krishna Govinda Shrestha, the manager of Ranjana Cinema, and began distributing films through 'Manish Films.' The first film he distributed was the Bollywood movie Bulundi, which was a major success in Nepal.

In 2040 B.S., the Nepalese film Jeevan Rekha celebrated 100 days of successful screening at Ranjana Cinema. Kayastha had the opportunity to closely observe its commercial success, which convinced him that the film business had great potential.

He then took Ranjana Cinema on lease and actively engaged in its management, along with film distribution and theater operations. He operated the theater until 2060 B.S. and later managed other theaters, such as Pushpanjali Cinema in PepsiCola (2060–2079 B.S.), Siddhartha Cinema in Boudha (2065–2076 B.S.), Shri Chalachitra Mandir in Panauti (2056–2066 B.S.), and Bishwojyoti Cinema in Kathmandu (2060–2071 B.S.).

Kayastha continued his journey as a Bollywood film distributor and exhibitor. In 2046 B.S., the Nepal Motion Picture Association, an umbrella organization for film distributors and exhibitors, held its general assembly at Ranjana Cinema. During the event, two Nepalese films, Lodhi Papi and Yug Dekhi Yug Samma, were specially screened. Kayastha was highly impressed with Yug Dekhi Yug Samma. Through Prem Thapa, who was running Kalpana Hall in Pokhara, he connected with the film’s producer, Chhabi Raj Ojha. After discussing financial aspects, Kayastha took charge of the film’s distribution. This marked his entry into Nepalese film distribution. Yug Dekhi Yug Samma was the debut film of actor Rajesh Hamal and became a massive hit. Following this success, Kayastha expanded his involvement in distributing Nepalese films.

Over the years, Kayastha has distributed more than 100 Bollywood films in Nepal, including Bulundi, Baaghi, Sabse Bada Khiladi, Mohra, Ant, Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, and Darr. Similarly, he has successfully distributed over 100 Nepalese films, including Yug Dekhi Yug Samma, Kasam, Pinjada, Kartavya, Hami Teen Bhai, A Pandit Baje, Ward Number 6, Chhakka Panja, Bhairav, Sanglo, Shatru Gate, Hawaldar Suntali, Kali, and Maryada.

Film distribution is not an easy task, as it requires gaining the trust of both producers and exhibitors. Kayastha never gave up despite challenges. His dedication, honesty, integrity, and hard work have led him to the peak of success in film distribution. His journey was not just about business but also about promoting Nepalese cinema. Without taking credit as a producer, he invested in talented directors and established banners to encourage quality filmmaking.

Kayastha has played an important role in making the film distribution system more transparent. Currently, he serves as the Vice President of the Nepal Film Association.

Besides film distribution and exhibition, he has also acted in over a dozen films, including Triveni, A Pandit Baje, Jiddi, Radhe, Rudra, Hostel Returns, Timisanga, and Lootera. Additionally, he has produced Lootera and several Nepal Bhasa films, including Lakhe, Sanakhat, and Dhime Macha.

With his hard work and visionary approach, Kayastha has contributed immensely to the Nepalese film industry. He is not just a distributor, exhibitor, and producer but is also regarded as a guardian figure in the Nepalese film industry.