Upasana Singh Thakuri embraces Sonam Topden in a lakeside scene from Jalaaki | Screenshot from the trailer.
College romance gives way to heartbreak in the newly released trailer for Jalaaki, starring Upasana Singh Thakuri, Sonam Topden and Shilpa Maskey. Directed by Ashok Thapa Magar, the romantic drama brings together young love, family memories and the cultural traditions that shape its characters’ lives.
The trailer was unveiled on October 30 at QFX Cinemas in Labim Mall, Lalitpur. The film is scheduled to open in cinemas across Nepal on November 20, 2026, corresponding to Mangsir 4, 2083.
Upasana and Sonam’s relationship is at the centre of the trailer, which follows the warmth of college life and the emotional changes that come with time. Moments of affection sit alongside longing and separation, suggesting a love story shaped by more than the feelings of its two leads.
Family relationships also form an important part of the story. Alongside its romantic scenes, the trailer introduces memories and personal struggles that connect the characters to their past.
Jalaaki reunites Upasana with director Ashok Thapa Magar following Khusma. Sonam, whose previous work includes Shambhala, joins her as the male lead.
Speaking at the trailer launch, Upasana described the film as a special project and expressed her happiness at working with the director again. She also acknowledged her fellow actors and the technical team.
Sonam spoke about the director’s confidence in his acting and described Jalaaki as a love story rooted in the culture and surroundings of the Magar community.
The meaning behind Jalaaki
The film’s title carries a cultural connection. According to the director, “Jalaaki” refers to a stone pillar associated with faith, remembrance and love in the Magar community. The film draws on that symbolism while incorporating the culture, traditions and emotions of Magar and Gurung communities.
Its music has already introduced audiences to the film’s romantic and cultural setting. Songs released ahead of the trailer include Chandi Jalap, Jale Rumal Mayalai and Kalejiko Chheu.
Alongside Upasana, Sonam and Shilpa, the cast includes Maotse Gurung, Buddhi Tamang, Astitwa Bhattachan, Sahara Hangma Limbu, Rajani Gurung, former Miss Nepal Usha Khadgi and Loonibha Tuladhar. Vijay Lama appears in a special role.
The change in the leading cast
Viewers who remember the early promotional poster featuring Dhiraj Magar alongside Upasana will notice a different pairing in the latest trailer.
Dhiraj was previously attached to Jalaaki but later left the project. Reports published in March 2026 described his departure as a mutual decision and confirmed Sonam’s return to the leading role. Sonam had been associated with the film earlier and had also undergone recovery from a leg injury.
The current promotional campaign features Sonam and Upasana as the central pair.
Produced under the banner of M Media Production, Jalaaki will be distributed in Nepal by Kafiya Films and Kuber Cine Distribution. Its November 20 release will bring the full story behind the trailer’s romance, memories and separation to the big screen.
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