Nepali Chef Santosh Shah’s Life Inspires Film Selected for Berlin Co-Production Market

The upcoming feature film “The Test of Salt,” inspired by the extraordinary life of renowned Nepali chef Santosh Shah, has been selected for the prestigious Berlin Co-Production Market. Out of nearly 400 international applications, the project is among 19 top “Official Feature Projects” chosen for presentation.

Set to premiere at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival in February, the project will be showcased to over 600 global producers, distributors, sales agents, and investors.

Directed by Deepak Rauniyar, known for Highway, Seto Surya, and Pooja, the film is a Nepal-UK co-production. It highlights Shah’s journey of resilience and excellence, using the dishes he created to explore themes of immigration, racial discrimination, and exile. Filming will take place across Nepal, India, and the UK.

The project brings together two production companies: Nepal’s Adi Films, founded by Rauniyar and actress Asha Magar, and the British company Film and Music Entertainment, led by experienced producer Sam Taylor.

Taylor, known for over 75 European films including the Oscar-nominated “Before the Rain,” praised Rauniyar’s vision: “Deepak has a clear cinematic approach. This story, rooted in the real lives of Chef Santosh and Deepak, maintains authenticity while bringing global attention to Nepali culture.”

Shah, who gained worldwide recognition through MasterChef: The Professionals, called the selection a victory for all Nepalis. “This film is not just about my biography—it honors Nepal’s culinary heritage and struggles. Seeing my story reach a world-renowned festival fills me with immense pride,” he said.

Rauniyar added, “At a time when immigration and identity issues are under pressure globally, telling Santosh’s story is essential. He not only built a career abroad but also introduced Nepali cuisine and culture to the world. His journey from marginalization to global success is both timely and inspiring.”

The Berlin Co-Production Market is a major platform for funding, sales, and international distribution. Past projects from the market have gone on to win awards at Cannes, Sundance, and the Oscars. For Rauniyar, this is his first selection at the Berlin market and also marks the first Nepali project to achieve this milestone.