‘Kabaddi 5’ Advance Ticket Sales Open in Nepal and US, Film to Release in 40 American Cities

KATHMANDU: Advance ticket sales have opened for ‘Kabaddi: After the Final Match’, one of the most anticipated Nepali films of the year, ahead of its scheduled theatrical release on Friday.

Cinemas began selling advance tickets on Tuesday. As of 8 pm on Tuesday, the film had secured more than 100 shows, according to the figures available at the time of reporting. The number of screenings is expected to rise significantly by Thursday evening, on the eve of its release.

QFX Cinemas has listed 26 shows in the Kathmandu Valley and 20 outside the Valley.

The film has generated considerable anticipation because of the commercial success and legacy of the previous four instalments in the Kabaddi franchise. That popularity has raised expectations that the latest instalment could secure a substantial number of screenings.

However, Chha Maya Chhapakkai 2, Aabat Aama 2 and 12 Gaun 2 are also currently screening in cinemas. How exhibitors allocate shows among the competing releases remains to be seen. A decline in screenings for films already in theatres could benefit Kabaddi 5, although the final distribution of shows will depend on exhibitors’ decisions.

Directed by Rambabu Gurung, the film stars Dayahang Rai, Bipin Karki, Bijay Baral, Buddhi Tamang, Rishma Gurung, Srijana Gurung, Pushkar Gurung, Maotse Gurung, Kamalmani Nepal, Miruna Magar, Kabita Ale, Aruna Karki and Shishir Bangdel, among others.

The film is presented by Baasuri Films. Gurung, Maniram Pokharel, Madhu Mijar and Bishal Gurung (LG) are its producers.

Kabaddi 5 to Release in More Than 40 US Cities

‘Kabaddi 5’ is also scheduled to open in more than 40 cities across 22 US states on Friday, according to distributor Nepal Eleven Entertainment. Advance bookings have opened in the United States as well.

The distributor said on social media that the number of cinemas and screenings could increase further.

The available show listings in Columbus, Ohio, suggest potential for a strong box-office performance there, although actual earnings will depend on ticket sales.

Meanwhile, actor Buddhi Tamang has released a video message urging audiences to visit their nearest cinema and watch the film.