About Us

Highlighting the beauty and depth of cinematic expression while showcasing Janakpur’s historical and cultural values.

Janakpur International Film Festival (JIFF)

Janakpur International Film Festival (JIFF) 2026 is a four-day celebration of cinema, culture, storytelling, and music,  set in the spiritually rich city of Janakpur, Nepal. Organised by the Sambad Foundation, the festival showcases a curated selection of global films ranging from powerful narratives to experimental works, highlighting the diversity of world cinema.

In addition to film screenings, JIFF offers panel discussions with filmmakers and scholars, masterclasses on screenwriting, directing, acting, editing,  cinematography, and a broad cultural program featuring Regional music, dance, visual arts, and literature.

As a cultural movement, JIFF aims to revive cinematic traditions and promote Janakpur as a hub for tourism, creativity, and heritage. It’s a dynamic platform for filmmakers, artists, and audiences to connect, learn, and celebrate storytelling in all its forms.

The Janakpur International Film Festival (jiff) 2026

Mark your calendars for the 2nd edition of Janakpur International Film Festival (jiff), set to take place in early 2026. This festival represents a significant milestone in decentralizing filmmaking and film appreciation beyond the capital city of Nepal. JIFF will not only showcase films from around the world but will also emphasize the rich cultural context of Janakpur, encouraging filmmakers to explore and absorb the historical significance of this sacred city.

Our Mission

Celebrating Cinematic Artistry

The JIFF aims to create a vibrant platform for celebrating film and artistic expression in a city rich with cultural heritage. Our second season is dedicated to appreciating diverse cinematic narratives and fostering meaningful dialogue between filmmakers and audiences. By highlighting both local and international films, JIFF seeks to uplift the standards of Nepali cinema while encouraging the exploration of unique stories and technical prowess. Through carefully curated screenings of feature-length and short films, along with a competitive awards program, we invite filmmakers and admirers to come together in the spirit of creativity and collaboration

Sparking Conversations Through Cinemas

At the heart of JIFF is a commitment to dialogue. Our festival features a dedicated ‘Forum’ where industry experts, filmmakers, and artists can engage in discussions about various aspects of cinema, art and society. This interactive platform is designed to promote the exchange of ideas and critical commentary, addressing multi-dimensional issues that resonate across cultures. By inviting guests from various sectors of the film and media industries, including independent actors and filmmakers, JIFF aspires to foster a community that values open dialogue and shared experiences.

Strategic Vision for JIFF

  • Establish Recognition: Position JIFF as a nationally and internationally recognized event, creating a dynamic platform for filmmakers and audiences to connect and engage.
  • Facilitate Cultural Exchange: Promote educational, humanitarian, and cultural experiences through film, media arts, and digital storytelling.
  • Nurture Filmmaker Community: Foster a vibrant community of filmmakers and storytellers through formal and informal educational programs, along with exposure to global independent cinema.
  • Train Content Creators: Equip content creators to explore and reveal authentic narratives about contemporary Nepal, thereby fostering a market for independent Nepali films.
  • Drive Positive Social Change: Use film and media arts to generate discourse on relevant issues, encouraging thoughtful conversations that enhance community engagement and understanding.