The cultural exchange between India and Nepal has created a rich tapestry of shared heritage. In light of the current unrest in Nepal, many Indians have shown solidarity. This connection is also reflected in the ancestry of several well-known Indian celebrities. Here’s a look at seven Indian stars with Nepali origins.
1. Manisha Koirala: Born in Biratnagar, Nepal, Manisha Koirala is from a prominent political background, being the granddaughter of Nepal’s former Prime Minister, Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala. Her father, Prakash Koirala, was a former Cabinet minister in Nepal, holding the Environment, Science, and Technology portfolios.
During the recent protests in Nepal, Manisha expressed her views on Instagram, stating, “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: Raised in Delhi after being born in Kathmandu, Nepal, to a Marwari family, Rohit Saraf moved to Mumbai at 15 to pursue acting. Despite the distance, he voiced his support for the people of Nepal and mourned the loss of life due to the protests. He wrote, “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 and actress Bharti Singh has Nepali roots on her father’s side. Her father was reportedly of mixed Indian and Nepali descent. She has often discussed her connection with Nepal and her love for Nepali food.
4. Danny Denzongpa: Danny Denzongpa was born in Sikkim to a Nepali-speaking Bhutia family. He is a celebrated actor with a career spanning over five decades. He has appeared in more than 190 films and was awarded the Padma Shri.
5. Udit Narayan: Singer Udit Narayan’s father was a Nepalese citizen. He was born in the Baisi village of the Supaul district in Bihar, India, near the India-Nepal border.
6. Mala Sinha: Veteran actress Mala Sinha’s parents were Nepali Christians who migrated to West Bengal. She acted in the Nepali film ‘Maitighar’ in 1966 and married Nepali actor Chidambar Prasad Lohani that same year.
7. Sunil Thapa: Sunil Thapa is a popular Nepali actor who has worked in various Indian movies, including Ek Duuje Ke Liye, Aaj Ki Awaaz, Manav Hatya, and Bandhu. He has also acted in several Bhojpuri films.