A major box office dispute has emerged in Nepal’s film industry. The producers of Hrashwo Deergha claim the film earned Rs. 10.6 crore in its first three weeks. However, the Film Development Board (FDB) reports a much lower figure—just Rs. 4.33 crore. The Rs. 6 crore difference has raised serious questions.
Who Reported What?
The film, directed by Chandra Pant, was released with high expectations. The production team quickly began promoting the film’s success. According to their updates, Hrashwo Deergha grossed Rs. 10.6 crore by the end of its third week. This number was shared on social media and featured in local entertainment news.
But the Film Development Board, which tracks official box office numbers in Nepal, reported a total gross of only Rs. 4.33 crore. The difference between the two numbers is a massive Rs. 6 crore.
Why Is There a Discrepancy?
Small differences in box office data are common in Nepal. This is mainly because the Board has not yet connected all cinema halls under a centralized system. As a result, variations of a few lakhs are usually accepted.
But a gap of Rs. 6 crore is unusual and concerning.
Speaking to the media, FDB representatives noted that they collect data only from cinemas that are linked to their digital reporting system. Many small theaters, especially in rural areas, do not yet submit real-time data.
Still, industry insiders believe there may be more to the story.
Marketing or Misreporting?
Film marketing experts say box office exaggeration is not new. Producers often inflate numbers to create a buzz. A movie that appears to be a hit draws more viewers, attracts sponsors, and can get better deals from foreign distributors.
“It’s a smart way to boost interest,” said a film analyst from Kathmandu. “People are more likely to see a movie if they think it’s already successful.”
This may be what happened with Hrashwo Deergha.
About the Film
Hrashwo Deergha is an action-comedy featuring a star-studded cast. The film includes performances by Hariraj Adhikari, Nita Dhungana, Pradeep Raut, Brahmanandam, Ali, Bipana Thapa, and Garima Sharma. It was one of the most anticipated Nepali films of the year.
The movie blends local humor with high-energy sequences and has performed well in urban theaters. Fans praised the film’s performances and production quality.
What Happens Next?
The Film Development Board has not accused the producers of wrongdoing. But the large difference in earnings has led many to call for better tracking systems.
“The industry needs transparency,” said a senior official at FDB. “Until all theaters are linked, we will continue to see confusion in box office numbers.”
In 2023, the Board had announced plans to digitize cinema reporting nationwide. But progress has been slow. Without a unified system, box office numbers remain vulnerable to manipulation.
Impact on the Industry
This incident could push the government to speed up reforms. A central reporting system would not only improve trust but also help investors, filmmakers, and fans know how movies are truly performing.
It also raises the question of whether inflated box office figures should be penalized if proven false.
