Kathmandu, May 30
Xizang Panorama, organized by the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China in collaboration with the Central Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Tribhuvan University, concluded a seminar titled “Diverse Narratives of Ethnic Imagery and Cross-Cultural Dialogue” on Thursday at the Academic Lecture Hall of Tribhuvan University’s Central Library.
The seminar featured the screening of the film Where the Mighty Rivers Begin, directed by Qing Qin, which explores the wildlife of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau.
Moderated by Shree Ram Paudel, Assistant Professor at Tribhuvan University, the seminar included speakers Yan Zhanling and Nie Cong, producers of Where the Mighty Rivers Begin and Youthful Xizang.
Speaking at the event, Yan shared his experiences and challenges during the film’s production.
“In 2010, during my first film project in Xizang, we drew inspiration from BBC’s techniques. However, when capturing the plateau, we knew we had to tell authentic stories of this land. We filmed animals as equals, using a level perspective,” he said. “Against the backdrop of melting glaciers, we reexamined humanity’s relationship with nature. The final four episodes focus on human-animal coexistence, filled with compelling narratives.”
Discussing the challenges, he added, “The Qinghai-Xizang Plateau’s complex terrain and transportation hurdles were immense. Sometimes we waited 20 days for a single shot — but it was worth it.”
Similarly, producer Nie Cong shared her views on the film, highlighting its musical composition and use of intentional pauses to convey emotion and depth.
Xizang Panorama, which features six films, is also part of this year’s Kathmandu International Mountain Film Festival.
Later the same day, a second screening took place at QFX Cinema in Chhaya Center. Delegates, festival organizers, and audiences watched 15-minute excerpts from six films, including Snow Leopard and Friends, Where the Mighty Rivers Begin, Life of Buda, Youthful Xizang, Wild Wonders in Xizang, and Days and Nights in Xizang.
The third indoor screening of Xizang Panorama was held at the Godavari Alumni Association Hall. Hosted by Associate Professor Deb Raj Aryal, the event featured the screening of Days and Nights in Xizang, followed by a Q&A session with producer Lu Yiyan.
