KATHMANDU -- Hundreds of filmmakers from South Asia will be assembling in Kathmandu this week for the ninth edition of the Film South Asia (FSA) scheduled to begin here on Oct 3-6.

According to the organizer, FSA, the biennial festival, will be showcasing a total of 55 documentaries and non-fiction films from seven countries on diverse issues and subject matters. Out of the 55 films, 34 films will be competing for top honor that carries a cash prize of 2,000 U.S. dollars. Cash prizes in various other categories have also been planned.

The 55 films were selected from 382 entries, which according to the organizer is an impressive turnout. "There has been a surge in films from Afghanistan and Pakistan in this year's edition. What was lacking in the previous years has found a space in this year's editions," said Kanak Mani Dixit, chair of FSA.

Dixit added that FSA will provide a platform to filmmakers who are in need of funding to better their production.

Besides participants from India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Pakistan, filmmakers from Myanmar will also be screening their production. There are three films from Myanmar to be showcased.

Likewise, India has the largest entry, with 14 films, while Afghanistan has nine. Nepal, Sri Lanka and Pakistan have three each. Bangladesh has six.

FSA has been in existence since 2007 and has been working to popularize documentaries so that it entertains, informs and changes lives.