Kiran Nepali

Jitendra Mahat Abhilasi (1956–2004) was a pioneering Nepali stage, radio, television, and film actor known for his powerful voice, disciplined craft, and exceptional contribution to Nepali performing arts. Born on 11 September 1956 in Kabilas, Nuwakot, he began his artistic journey as a student with a deep interest in theatre and literature. Abhilasi wrote, directed, and acted in his first historical play “Shree 5 Ranabahadur Shah” (1969) and went on to perform in over 482 radio dramas, 460 radio scripts, and more than 60 stage plays. He appeared in around 40 telefilms and over three dozen feature films including Manko Baadh, Basudev, Anyaya, Koseli, Chino, Basanti, Lagangatho, and Simarekha. Renowned for his radio drama legacy and versatile screen presence, Abhilasi remained one of Nepal’s most respected multi‑disciplinary artists until his passing on 27 September 2004.

Barsha Siwakoti is a versatile Nepali actress and model recognized for her natural charm, graceful performances, and strong presence in both commercial and critically acclaimed films. Born on 6 April 1993, she entered the industry through modeling and music videos before making her film debut in Nai Nabhannu La 2 (2014). Her breakthrough came with Pashupati Prasad (2016), earning her a FAAN Award nomination for Best New Actress.She has since appeared in a wide range of genres—from action‑comedy to drama—solidifying her reputation as a dependable and expressive performer. Beyond films, she is active in brand endorsements, music videos, and social campaigns, maintaining a strong public following.

Divya Dev Pant is a distinguished Nepali actor, theatre artist, and voice performer originally from Baitadi, Nepal. He began his acting career in 2010 with One World Theatre, debuting in Angels in America, and has since performed in over 25 plays in both English and Nepali. His stage credits include Hamlet, Golden Boy, True West, and Sandaju Ko Mahabharat, often under the direction of Dr. Deborah Merola. In film, Divya Dev has played lead roles in Chiso Ashtray, Rudane, and Hijo Aaja Kaa Kura, and appeared in supporting roles in The Secret of Radha, Kiya, and Looking for a Lady with Fangs and a Moustache. He has also acted in dozens of short films and music videos. He is widely recognized as the host of The Poet Idol, Nepal’s first poetry reality show, and the narrator of The Voice of Nepal, where his commanding voice and theatrical delivery have become iconic. Divya Dev’s work bridges classical theatre, contemporary cinema, and poetic storytelling, making him one of Nepal’s most versatile and respected performers.

Shiva Shankar Manandhar (1932–2004) was a legendary figure in Nepali music and cinema, celebrated for his versatility as a singer, composer, and actor. Born in Newroad, Kathmandu, to a musically inclined Newar family, his early exposure to classical Newari songs through his father, Man Bahadur, laid the foundation for his lifelong devotion to music. He joined Radio Nepal in 1951, where he collaborated with Nati Kaji to shape the golden era of Nepali music. Over his prolific career, he composed around 1,200 songs and sang nearly 300, spanning genres like love ballads, bhajans, patriotic anthems, and tragic melodies. His compositions for artists such as Narayan Gopal, Tara Devi, and Aruna Lama remain timeless. 🎬 In cinema, Shiva Shankar played the lead role of Lahure Dai in Aama (1964), Nepal’s first feature film. Though he didn’t pursue acting further, he composed music for several early Nepali films, contributing to the industry's formative sound. 🎶 Sadabahar (Evergreen) Songs: Aama ko sapana – a heartfelt tribute to motherhood Yo Nepali shir uchali – a patriotic anthem Timro lagi ma birsine – a romantic classic His music blended folk traditions with orchestral arrangements, pioneering modern Nepali pop while preserving cultural authenticity. Shiva Shankar received numerous national honors and served as Executive Director of Ratna Recording Corporation (1987–1991). Even post-retirement, he remained a guardian of Nepal’s musical soul.