Hindi trailer of ‘Four Rivers Six Ranges’ launched ahead of its nationwide theatrical release

PRASHANT ACHARYA

SILIGURI,: The Hindi trailer of the historical action-drama ‘Four Rivers Six Ranges’ (originally titled Chushi Gangdruk) was launched in Siliguri on Monday, ahead of its nationwide theatrical release on September 11. The film will be screened across PVR cinemas and other theatres throughout India.

Inspired by true events from Tibetan history, the film tells the remarkable story of the Chushi Gangdruk (Four Rivers, Six Ranges), a Tibetan volunteer resistance force that escorted Tenzin Gyatso safely across the Himalayas into India in 1959 following the Chinese military takeover of Tibet.

The film is directed, written and co-composed by Shenpenn Khymsar and is based on the book ‘Flight at the Cuckoo's Behest’ by producer Dorjee Wangdi Dewatshang.

Speaking to the media during the trailer launch, Khymsar described the project as the most significant work of his career and revealed the challenges faced while making the film.

"The most difficult part was completing the entire shoot in Mustang, Nepal, within just 19 days. The shooting location was close to the China border, making the production extremely challenging," he said.

Khymsar further alleged that there were attempts to stop the project from progressing.

"The Chinese government tried to stop this film, but I never gave up. Even the certification process was delayed after the External Affairs Ministry paused the certification. After continuous efforts and clarification, we finally obtained the required clearance," he said.

Describing the film as deeply personal, Khymsar remarked, "This is the biggest anti-China film made by a 'Bhote' born in Darjeeling." He added that the movie is not merely a cinematic project but an attempt to preserve an important chapter of Tibetan history and present it to audiences around the world.

The Hindi version of the film features a voiceover by acclaimed Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, bringing the story closer to mainstream Indian audiences.

The event was attended by veteran filmmaker Tulsi Ghimire, who praised the project, saying Shenpenn Khymsar has never been known for making purely entertaining films but instead creates bold, aggressive and thought-provoking cinema that encourages audiences to reflect on history and society.

Film producer Sushma Gurung from Sikkim also lauded the trailer and congratulated Khymsar for bringing the powerful story to the screen. She expressed confidence that the film would resonate with audiences for its historical importance and emotional depth.

Shot entirely amid the spectacular landscapes of Mustang in Nepal, "Four Rivers Six Ranges" has already received appreciation at international film festivals for its compelling storytelling, stunning cinematography and historical significance.

With its nationwide release scheduled for September 11, the film aims to introduce audiences to a lesser-known chapter of Tibetan history while paying tribute to the courage, sacrifice and resilience of the Tibetan people.