Released on January 13, 2012, “Loot” (Nepali: लूट) is widely considered a turning point in the history of Nepali filmmaking. Directed and co-written by debutant Nischal Basnet, Loot broke all previous norms of storytelling, dialogue, and character portrayal, introducing urban realism and gritty narratives to Nepali audiences. The film not only gained critical acclaim but also achieved box office dominance, proving that Nepali cinema could be modern, sharp, and commercially viable.

Film Overview

Plot Summary

Set in the gritty backdrop of Kathmandu, Loot revolves around Haku Kale (Saugat Malla), a street-smart hustler determined to rise out of poverty. To escape his circumstances, Haku plans a bank robbery. He recruits four individuals, each driven by personal desperation:

• Naresh (Nare) – A laid-back man with gambling issues

• Gopal “Gofle” – A naive young man looking for quick money

• Khatri – A somewhat mysterious character with a shady past

• Pandey – A comic yet desperate youth

The crew plans a flawless heist, but as the day arrives, twists unravel. The robbery goes wrong, the police intervene, and betrayal ensues. In the end, Haku Kale escapes, leaving the rest to face the consequences, suggesting deeper motives behind his plan.

Main Cast and Characters

• Saugat Malla – Haku Kale: Charismatic, cunning, and the film’s anti-hero. A career-defining role.

• Karma Shakya – Naresh (Nare): Relaxed but flawed with a hint of tragedy.

• Dayahang Rai – Gopal “Gofle”: Comic yet emotional performance.

• Prateek Raj Neupane – Khatri: Sharp and secretive, adds suspense to the group.

• Sushil Raj Pandey – Pandey: Youthful and impulsive.

• Reecha Sharma – Ayesha: Nare’s girlfriend; emotional support role.

• Srijana Subba – Putali: Haku Kale’s loyal wife.

• Sushma Karki – Special appearance in the iconic item song “Udhreko Choli”

Music and Soundtrack

Composed by Roshan Thapa, the Loot soundtrack was a key element of its mass appeal. It perfectly complemented the film’s urban tone, and the music was especially popular with Nepal’s younger audience.

 Notable Songs:

1. “Udhreko Choli”

   • Sung by Indira Joshi and Nischal Basnet

   • A bold, high-energy item song that became a cultural phenomenon

2. “Nepali”

   • A patriotic track that reflects the frustration of youth in a corrupt society.

3. “Bhagera Janchu Timro Gharbara”

   • A softer, emotional ballad contrasting the film’s darker tone.

Awards and Recognition

At the 2012 National Film Awards (Nepal), Loot won multiple honors:

• Best Actor – Saugat Malla

• Best Debut Director – Nischal Basnet

• Best Cinematography – Purusottam Pradhan

• Recognized for modern storytelling and setting a new cinematic benchmark

Cultural Significance

 Revolutionized Urban Filmmaking

  Before Loot, Nepali films were often formulaic, focusing on rural settings or melodrama. Loot introduced:

• Raw street language

• Urban youth culture

• Anti-heroes and morally grey characters

• Realistic Kathmandu life

 Youth Engagement

• First Nepali film in years to captivate college and city audiences

• Addressed economic frustration, corruption, and dreams of quick success

 Created an Icon: Haku Kale

• Haku Kale became a pop culture reference

• His dialogue (“Yo afno ho, Haku Kale ko”) became a street catchphrase

 Commercial Success

• Budget: Approx. NPR 5–7 million

• Gross: NPR 52 million

• Record-breaking run at multiplexes and single screens alike

The film’s unexpected success revived confidence in Nepali films, especially among skeptical urban viewers.

Sequel – Loot 2 (2017)

Due to overwhelming popularity, Loot 2 was released in 2017, continuing Haku Kale’s story. While it was successful, it couldn’t surpass the originality and cultural impact of the first film.

Trivia

• The film’s dialogue was partially improvised, contributing to its authentic street tone.

• The bank heist was inspired by real urban crimes reported in Kathmandu.

• Loot was one of the first Nepali films to gain mainstream digital popularity.

Conclusion

Loot (2012) is not just a film—it is a cinematic movement. It shattered stereotypes, brought youth back to theaters, and laid the foundation for modern Nepali filmmaking. Its compelling characters, smart writing, and urban authenticity make it a must-watch for anyone interested in South Asian or Nepali cinema.

Whether you’re analyzing film evolution or just want a thrilling crime story with gritty realism—Loot delivers both substance and style.