Kathmandu — The question that has kept Nepali film circles buzzing for months has finally been answered. Actor Pushpa Khadka has been officially signed as the lead of the highly anticipated film Maharajdhiraj, with the production team marking Nepal's New Year by releasing a striking special poster alongside the announcement.
The poster immediately communicates that this will be no ordinary film. In one image, Pushpa appears in full royal regalia — wearing a crown, holding a royal scepter, and dressed in regal attire that speaks of power and ceremony. In a second image, the same actor appears physically frail and gaunt, seated in a vignette chair, while his royal-costumed self stands behind him. The symbolic contrast between these two states hints at a story of profound depth, exploring perhaps the duality between outward authority and inner vulnerability, or the cost of power on the human spirit.
The production team released an accompanying tagline: "May every step of virtue and goodwill be with you always; may discord, dishonesty, and crisis never come near."
Pushpa's commitment to the role is striking in its intensity. Rather than the customary signature, he sealed his contract with a blood thumbprint — a dramatic gesture he described as reflecting how seriously he is taking this opportunity. He has also announced that for the entire duration of the film's production, he will not participate in any other films, music videos, TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube content — a total screen blackout that underscores his complete dedication to the role.
The film, directed by Sen — whose previous film Premganj was critically acclaimed — features a cast of over 80 actors alongside Pushpa, including Nir Shah, Aryan Sigdel, Ramesh Upreti, Barsha Raut, Usha Rajak, Hiunbala Gautam, Jayakishan Basnet, Shishir Bhandari, Gajit Bisht, and Asha Poudel, among others.
Shooting is planned to begin in the second week of Baisakh, starting at Sri Lanka Tapu in Sunsari, before moving to various historical and scenic locations in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Kirtipur. Cinematography will be handled by Nabaraj Thapa.
The film is produced under the banner of Chhattreshwar Management Pvt. Ltd. by Ravi Khadka, Shivraj Poudel, and Topendra Bisht, with presenter Biraj Bisht. Maharajdhiraj is targeting a Fulpati release during the upcoming Dashain festival.