Meet Mehaka Chahat Luintel | Producer/ Writer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mehaka Chahat Luintel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mehaka Chahat, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
“Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together.”
– Vincent Van Gogh

I like this affirmation because as a film producer I truly believe that greatness doesn’t happen instantly and by one person, it’s the cumulative effect of careful, small actions and a deep commitment to the process by a lot of people enabling each other. It’s a fitting reminder for anyone dedicated to a long-term vision, especially in the creative fields.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a film producer, I’ve had the privilege of producing shorts across America and internationally, including projects in Nepal, India, China, and even the Democratic Republic of Congo. My journey started in a writers’ room, where I began as a screenwriter, exploring various facets of the industry, from assistant directing to copywriting. But I quickly discovered my true passion lay in bringing projects together, enabling writers and directors, and developing stories from concept to screen.

What sets my work apart is my commitment to socially relevant storytelling and my interest in elevating voices from underrepresented communities. I believe that stories shape culture, and I want to use my work to amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard. I am drawn to projects that make philosophical, existential, and political themes accessible, exploring film not just as a medium for narrative but as an art form in itself.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t been easy, and every step of the way has brought valuable lessons. I’ve learned that resilience, adaptability, and a genuine love for the craft are essential. Working in diverse environments across different countries has shown me the unique power of storytelling in bridging cultures. My hope is to continue fostering inclusive and impactful filmmaking, to support talented filmmakers globally, and to bring nuanced, meaningful stories to audiences who crave them. This is the heart of my brand-filmmaking as a force for connection, reflection, and change.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting me in West Harlem, I’d plan an unforgettable week in New York City, blending iconic sites with my local favorites. We’d start in my neighborhood at Honeywell, my go to bar, for some expertly crafted cocktails and then dive into Harlem’s rich jazz scene with a live show at one of the legendary spots like Minton’s or Showman’s. Naturally, we’d end the night with Harlem’s signature chicken and waffles. The next day, we’d head up to The Met Cloisters, a hidden gem in Fort Tryon Park that feels like stepping into a medieval European palace. After soaking in the art and the views, we’d grab cookies from Levain Bakery on our way back. I’d take them to Jackson Heights next, for incredible birria tacos from Birria-Landia, followed by the Museum of the Moving Image, a must for any film lover. We’d also spend a day walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, savoring the iconic view before enjoying oysters by the water at Pilot, a restaurant on a historic schooner. For the Midtown experience, we’d visit one of the observation decks, like The Edge or Vanderbilt, for panoramic city views. Rounding out the week would be classic New York stops, pastrami at Katz’s, a Broadway show, some art at The Met and MoMA, and New Yorks famous bagels and pizza. This mix of experiences, from iconic landmarks to local flavors, would give them a genuine taste of the city’s energy and charm.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My shoutout goes to my parents and the incredible teachers I’ve had throughout school and college. Growing up in Kathmandu, Nepal, it’s not always common for parents to encourage a child toward the arts, but my parents recognized my passion for storytelling, theater, music, anything creative and they supported me in pursuing that path.

School wasn’t easy for me; I was often the oddball, with a short attention span and often getting into trouble. But my English literature and Nepali literature teachers saw something in me, a talent for storytelling and writing. They encouraged me and gave me the confidence to embrace that part of myself. Later, in college, I was fortunate to have professors who valued my artistic voice and helped me refine it. Each of these people played a crucial role in my journey, and I’m deeply grateful for their belief in me.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mehaka-chahat-luintel-66608022b/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SONzxhEBnQQ&t=10s