The cultural exchange between India and Nepal is demonstrated in the heritage of many prominent figures. In light of the current situation in Nepal, where protests have been taking place, many Indian citizens have offered their support. This link is also evident in the background of numerous Indian celebrities who have Nepali heritage. Here are seven popular Indian celebrities with connections to Nepal.
1. Manisha Koirala: Manisha Koirala was born in Biratnagar, Nepal, into a well-known political family. She is the granddaughter of Nepal’s former Prime Minister, Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala. Her father, Prakash Koirala, was a former Cabinet minister of Nepal, responsible for Environment, Science and Technology.
During the protests in Nepal, Manisha wrote on Instagram: “Today is a black day for Nepal — when bullets respond to the voice of the people, outrage against corruption and demand for justice.”
2. Rohit Saraf: Rohit Saraf, who was born in Kathmandu, Nepal, to a Marwadi family, moved to Delhi with his family and later to Mumbai at the age of 15 to pursue acting. Although he resides away from Nepal, Rohit showed support towards its citizens and mourned the lives lost in the violent protests, writing, “To everyone in Nepal… my thoughts and prayers are with you. No struggle should come at the cost of innocent lives. Violence is never the answer. Hoping for dialogue, compassion, and peace.”
3. Bharti Singh: The comedian-actor Bharti Singh has Nepali roots on her father’s side. Her father was half Indian and half Nepali. She has discussed her connection to Nepal and her love of Nepali cuisine.
4. Danny Denzongpa: Danny Denzongpa was born in Sikkim to a Nepali-speaking Bhutia family. He is a celebrated actor with a career that spans over five decades. He has appeared in over 190 films. He was also awarded the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors.
5. Udit Narayan: The singer Udit Narayan’s father was a Nepalese national. He was born in the Baisi village of Supaul district in Bihar, India, at his maternal grandparents’ home, which is near the India-Nepal border.
6. Mala Sinha: Veteran actress Mala Sinha’s parents were Christian Nepali immigrants to West Bengal. She also acted in the Nepali film ‘Maitighar’ in 1966. She also married Nepali actor Chidambar Prasad Lohani that same year.
7. Sunil Thapa: Sunil Thapa is a well-known Nepali actor who has worked in several Indian movies. He appeared in films such as Ek Duuje Ke Liye, Aaj Ki Awaaz, Manav Hatya, Bandhu, and many more. He has also worked in a number of Bhojpuri films.