Tribeny Rai’s acclaimed Nepali-language drama “Shape of Momo” has won the Best Feature Film award at the Nepal America International Film Festival 2026, held in Maryland, USA.
The festival concluded with an award ceremony at the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center, where the jury honored standout films and filmmakers across multiple competitive categories. This year’s festival took place from June 25 to 28, 2026, with screenings and events hosted at AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center and Greenbelt Cinema.
Organized by the Nepal America Film Society, NAIFF has grown into an important platform for Nepali, South Asian, American and diaspora cinema. The festival brings together filmmakers, artists and audiences through film screenings, red-carpet events, panel discussions, masterclasses and filmmaker conversations.
‘Shape of Momo’ Takes the Top Honor
The biggest award of the festival went to “Shape of Momo,” directed by Tribeny Rai. The film was also the opening night selection of NAIFF 2026, making its award win even more significant for the film’s international festival journey.
Starring Gaumaya Gurung and Pashupati Rai, “Shape of Momo” follows the story of Bishnu and a multi-generational family of women as they navigate patriarchy, identity, freedom and family expectations within a traditional Himalayan community.
The film had already earned international attention after premiering at the Busan International Film Festival 2025, where it won two awards. Its success at NAIFF 2026 further strengthens its position as one of the most talked-about Nepali-language films on the global festival circuit.
In the same Best Feature category, “Crawling Crows,” directed by Jaun Yonjan, received an honorable mention.
‘Shakti’ Wins Nepali Panorama Award
In the Best Nepali Panorama category, “Shakti,” directed by Nani Sahra Walker, was declared the winner. The film was also selected as the closing film of NAIFF 2026.
“Shakti” stars Laxmi Bardewa, Menuka Pradhan, Maotse Gurung and others. The film deals with sensitive social issues including gender inequality, justice and violence against Dalit women and girls.
“Family Man,” directed by Kalani Gyakon, received an honorable mention in the same category.
‘Have You Seen My God?’ Wins Two Awards
The Best Documentary award went to “Have You Seen My God?”, directed by Amitabha Joshi. The film also won the Best DMV Close-Up Award, making it one of the major winners of this year’s festival.
In the documentary category, “The Road to Til,” directed by Rajan Kathet, received an honorable mention.
Short Film and Jury Awards
The Best Short Film award was shared by two films: “Hills Don’t Dance Alone,” directed by Shubham Negi, and “One Two Three,” directed by Amir Hossein Keshmiri.
The Jury Award was presented to “Always,” directed by Deming Chen.
Special mention awards were also given to “Perfectly Seasoned,” directed by Brittney Ramjattan and Andres Ramjattan, “A Solemn Promise,” directed by Alin Katel, and “Have a Good One,” directed by Purandhya Sharma.
NAIFF’s Growing Role in Diaspora Cinema
Founded to celebrate diverse storytelling, NAIFF has become a meaningful space for Nepali and South Asian filmmakers working both at home and abroad. The 2026 edition highlighted films from Nepal, the United States, South Asia and other parts of the world, reflecting the festival’s commitment to global voices and cross-cultural cinema.
Festival founder and president Purna Singh Baraili said the event concluded successfully.
For Nepali cinema, the recognition of “Shape of Momo,” “Shakti” and other films at NAIFF 2026 is more than a festival achievement. It reflects the growing international interest in Nepali-language storytelling, women-led narratives, diaspora perspectives and socially relevant cinema.
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