KATHMANDU: Nepali documentary 'Zero to 8848' made a debut at AMC North DeKalb 16, Atlanta, on Saturday, drawing a packed audience and celebrating Nepal’s breathtaking rise from the lowland plains to the top of the world.

The premiere brought together a distinguished gathering, including Senator Sheikh Rahman, Clarkston Mayor Beverly H. Burks, and Nepal’s iconic musician Om Bikram Bista, alongside Nepali organizations and community members from across the United States.

Directed by Niranjan Pandey and Balram Budhathoki, with concept by journalist Prem Baniya, the film traces the world’s shortest elevation journey—from Kachankawal in Jhapa at 58 meters above sea level to the summit of Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) at 8,848 meters.

Filmed over four years, Zero to 8848 interweaves adventure, culture, spirituality, and climate awareness, presenting Nepal’s extraordinary vertical diversity and living heritage. The 106-minute documentary features celebrated figures including Everest summiteer Tendi Sherpa, mountaineer Pushkar Shah, and renowned American climber Conrad Anker.

Produced by Zero to 8848 Entertainment with a budget of about USD 1 million, the documentary not only captures the spirit of exploration but also promotes Nepal’s eco-tourism and cultural identity. Following the Atlanta premiere, organizers announced plans for screenings across various U.S. states before a global release.

Calling the turnout “a historic gathering of Nepalis abroad,” the team expressed gratitude to supporters and invited the world to witness Nepal’s unique journey “from zero to the top of the world.”