Deepak Rauniyar (born Aug 29, 1978) is a visionary filmmaker who has played a pivotal role in placing Nepali cinema on the global map through his unflinching, socially conscious storytelling. Shifting away from traditional commercial formulas, he gained international prominence with his 2012 film Highway that marked a turning point, becoming the first Nepali film to screen at the Berlin International Film Festival. His follow-up masterpiece, White Sun (Seto Surya) (2016), further solidified his reputation, earning critical acclaim at Venice, Toronto, and the New Directors/New Films festival. This film, which explores the lingering scars of the Nepali Civil War through a familial lens, was also Nepal’s official entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 90th Academy Awards.
Rauniyar’s work is characterized by a realistic, almost documentary-style aesthetic that tackles complex themes of identity, politics, and the clash between tradition and modernity. In his personal life, he is married to actress and frequent collaborator Asha Magrati, who has played key roles in his productions and shares his commitment to authentic representation. His influence extends beyond the director's chair; he is a vocal advocate for systemic change within the Nepali film board and a mentor to a new generation of independent filmmakers. By consistently securing international co-productions and distribution deals, such as his recent work on the high-profile police thriller Pooja, Sir (2025), he continues to bridge the gap between local narratives and the global stage.
