Dinesh Raut (born March 17, 1982) is a critically acclaimed Nepali film director, and writer, who has significantly influenced the modern era of Nepali cinema with his emotionally resonant and socially conscious storytelling. He began his journey in the arts as a theater artist and assistant director—most notably on the hit film Mero Euta Sathi Cha— before making his directorial debut in 2012 with the romantic drama I Am Sorry. He quickly established himself as a master of the romantic genre with back-to-back hits like November Rain (2014) and Classic (2016), which earned him several Best Director awards and solidified his partnership with actors like Aaryan Sigdel and Namrata Shrestha. Raut’s career is defined by his successful transition from commercial romances to gritty, realistic narratives that tackle complex societal issues. His 2018 film Prasad was a major turning point, exploring the struggles of a childless couple within the caste system, while his 2022 film Prakash received widespread acclaim for its authentic portrayal of rural struggle and political disillusionment, earning him the National Film Award for Best Director. In 2024, his film Pujar Sarki achieved massive commercial success, becoming one of the highest-grossing Nepali films in recent years. In his personal life, he is married to Rashmi Timilsina. Known for his meticulous approach to filmmaking and his talent as a lyricist for his own movies, Raut continues to be a leading figure in pushing the artistic boundaries of Kollywood.
