A biopic based on the life of renowned pilot, entrepreneur, and media figure Captain Rameshwar Thapa was officially inaugurated on the auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima. The inaugural ceremony took place at Trigajur Shivalaya in Gaurighat, Kathmandu, marked by Vedic rituals, Ganesh puja, and Shiva worship led by Pandit Kumar Subedi.

Renowned businessperson Upendra Mahato initiated the shoot with the ceremonial clap, while Capt Thapa called “Action”, signaling the symbolic beginning of what promises to be one of Nepal’s most compelling biographical films.

Directed and written by acclaimed filmmaker Dipendra K Khanal, the biopic, ‘Captain Saab’, will trace the extraordinary life journey of Capt Thapa from his humble beginnings in Kavre to becoming a celebrated helicopter pilot and a central figure during Nepal’s turbulent conflict era. The movie primarily focuses on Capt Thapa’s positive role during the decade-long Maoist insurgency, the peace process, and the promulgation of the constitution.

Khanal shared that the inspiration for Captain Saab came rather unexpectedly. While browsing a bookstore, he was struck by the cover of the book ‘Into the Fire’ , Capt Thapa’s autobiography.     “The cover felt like a movie poster,” Khanal recalled. “When I read the book, I was deeply moved. The life he has lived is far more heroic than most characters we see in the films.”

According to Khanal, the book didn’t just offer cinematic moments, but a real portrait of resilience, bravery, and service—qualities that defined Thapa’s role both in the skies and on the ground during times of national crisis.

Though initially hesitant about having his life adapted for cinema, Capt Thapa agreed after understanding the film’s intent to depict not just his professional achievements but the underlying human story. Khanal emphasized that the movie will balance cinematic storytelling with real-life emotion. “Crafting a biopic is not easy,” he said, “but it can be a powerful narrative when handled with sincerity.”

Leading the film as Capt Thapa is one of Nepal’s finest actors, Khagendra Lamichhane, who previously collaborated with Khanal in ‘Dhanapati’. Known for his intense performances and dedication to character, Lamichhane has taken this role as a personal mission.

“I’ve known Captain Thapa since 2015 when we met during the shoot of Pashupati Prasad,” Lamichhane said. “His dedication to saving lives during Nepal’s conflict era inspired me. This role is a tribute to his spirit. It’s not just acting for me—it’s about capturing a man’s life of purpose.”

To portray Thapa authentically, Lamichhane has spent significant time understanding the captain’s routines and personality. As someone who also came from a village background, Lamichhane sees parts of his own journey reflected in Thapa’s. “We both came from rural beginnings,” he said. “He became a pilot, and I became an actor. That shared root makes this portrayal more personal and convenient to work.”

Joining Lamichhane in a pivotal role is Surakshya Pant, another spectacular actor, playing the role of Thapa’s wife. Pant, who also starred opposite Lamichhane in ‘Dhanapati’, said this film reunites not only cast members but also a creative synergy that had worked well in the past.

“This character is close to my heart,” said Pant. “It’s a story of strength behind the scenes. The emotional layers of a wife supporting her husband through intense times—conflict, uncertainty, and public duty—need careful portrayal. I consider it a privilege.”

Pant emphasized the challenges of acting in a biographical film that touches on real-life trauma, including Nepal’s Maoist conflict and political unrest. “It’s sensitive material,” she noted. “We must show respect to those who lived through those times while keeping the cinematic experience alive.”

Sanjog Rasaili also features in a key role, alongside a strong ensemble cast that includes several experienced and emerging talents.

In addition to writing and directing, Khanal is also one of the producers, along with Karan Shrestha and Shrishtima Khanal. Rich Entertainment and Yarsa Studio are jointly backing the project. The film is being marketed as one of the most ambitious biopics in Nepali cinema.

The visual storytelling will be handled by Krishna Bahadur Thapa, an experienced cinematographer known for bringing emotional depth to Nepal’s diverse landscapes. The production team has planned to shoot in Kushadevi in Kavre—Capt Thapa’s birthplace—as well as Kathmandu and Chitwan.

Director Khanal described “Captain Saab” as a film that not only celebrates an individual’s courage but also reflects a pivotal time in the nation’s history.

“It will be an entertaining film, yes, but also a deeply moving one,” Khanal said. “It’s about a man navigating political instability, risking his life for others, and building something meaningful from scratch. That human element is what we are bringing to screen.”

The narrative of ‘Captain Saab’ will weave together elements of personal and national importance rescue missions, helicopter flights into remote areas, and the emotional toll of conflict. It promises to chronicle not only the professional life of Capt Thapa but also the unseen sacrifices and decisions made in the shadows of Nepal’s political upheaval.

Thapa, who currently serves as the Chairman of Simrik Air and Annapurna Media Network, was previously the head of the Airline Operators Association. His contributions during the civil conflict, especially through high-risk rescue operations, have earned him public respect.

The film, according to insiders, aims to reflect both the dramatic highs and the quiet sacrifices behind such a public figure. From people’s movement, mass rescue missions to aviation challenges and navigating complex political terrain, ‘Captain Saab’ is expected to resonate with both general audiences and those familiar with Nepal’s recent history.

Along with the lead producers, the film boasts a robust crew: Srijana Napit is serving as the executive producer, while Saugat Basnet is the chief assistant director. Bhimsen Shahi of Trident Concept is responsible for poster and publicity design. The production design is being handled by Aki Thekpa, with Rohit Raj Gautam and Bishnu Mainali managing the production process.

The director highlighted the team’s commitment to authenticity, not only in storytelling but in technical execution. “This is not a rushed project,” Khanal stated. “It’s going to be crafted with care, dedication, and clarity of vision.”

While biopics are rare in Nepali cinema, this film could pave the way for more stories rooted in real life. With a strong foundation of collaboration, veteran direction, and socially resonant themes, the journey of Captain Saab is one that the audience will be eager to follow.

Director Khanal summed it up best: “This is more than a film. It’s a responsibility to history, and a tribute to a man who dared to rise above the clouds—literally and metaphorically.”