BARSHA SIWAKOTI - Lights, Camera, Family!

Have you watched "Chakka Panja 5" yet? If not, you’re in for a treat! Barsha Siwakoti, a talented actress, shines in this much-anticipated film. As she embarks on this exciting journey, we dive into her inspiring story and the unwavering support from her

Barsha Siwakoti is a wellknown actress in the Nepali film industry, beloved for her talent and versatility. Her journey into acting was both surprising and inspiring, shaped by a supportive family. In this exclusive interview, we explore her experiences in the film industry, the challenges she has faced, and the key moments that have defined her career. Joining us are Barsha’s mother and brother, who share their thoughts on her remarkable journey and the strong bond of their close-knit family. Together, they represent a "smart family," where love and encouragement drive ambition and growth.

You’ve established yourself as a talented actress in the Nepali film industry. How did your journey in acting begin, and what were some of the challenges you faced early on?
It was nothing planned or prepared by me since I don’t come from a film background—my family has no connections in the industry. I never imagined I would be here. However, an opportunity arose during a college event, and I decided to accept it. Initially, my intention wasn’t to become a leading actress. But my debut movie was a success, and I started receiving offers for lead roles. I feel lucky for that.

One of the significant challenges I faced was understanding the industry itself. Coming from outside, it took time to grasp the nuances—knowing the right people, the working environment, and the overall process. I had to navigate this on my own, which sometimes felt overwhelming.

What has been one of the most defining moments in your acting career so far, and how did it shape you as a performer?
My debut film was a hit, even though I didn’t have many scenes. However, my second movie, Pashupati Prasad, became a standout project. Everyone loved it, and despite having less screen time, my performance resonated with audiences. Being part of a talented ensemble cast from theater helped change people’s perception of my acting abilities.

It’s been a decade in the industry, but many still recognize me for that particular character. While it’s flattering, I also feel the challenge to broaden the audience’s perspective on what I can do. I aspire to explore different roles that showcase my versatility.

Your recent role in Chakka Panja 5 has garnered a lot of attention. What drew you to this project, and what does the film represent for you?
Chakka Panja is known for its successful track record, and being part of such a well-respected project was a dream. I was excited when they approached me for a special character in this installment. This role allowed me to express myself and explore my craft in a way I hadn’t before, and I felt blessed to receive such a good opportunity. The director presented my character in a different light, emphasizing my emotional range, which I believe will resonate with the audience in a fresh way. I’m eager to see how viewers will react to this new side of me.

In such a fast-paced industry, how do you find time to recharge and maintain balance in your personal life?
My personal and working environments have been quite similar lately. I have a small, intimate family that understands the nature of my work. I’m very familyoriented, and when I’m not shooting, I enjoy doing household chores, playing with my pets, and spending quality time visiting relatives with my mom. This balance keeps me grounded and recharged.

When you reflect on your career and personal journey, what are the values or lessons you’ve held onto that keep you grounded?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in my ten years in this industry is that success takes time. I’ve come to understand that you can’t expect overnight achievements; hard work and patience are crucial. Every step of the journey is valuable and contributes to personal growth.

Finally, what makes your family unique? How have they contributed to your personal growth and success, and what does having a “smart family” mean to you? Could we hear a bit from your mother and brother on their thoughts about your journey? My family has always been incredibly supportive of my career choices. They respect my decisions, which makes my personal life easier. There are no "ifs" or "buts" because they trust that whatever I do will lead to good things for me. Their support has been instrumental in helping me become who I am today. I believe a smart family stands by each other through thick and thin, and we do just that.

Barsha's Mother: I couldn't be prouder of Barsha and the journey she has embarked on. From a young age, she had a clear vision of her dream to become an actress, often expressing it in her prayers. She has always been a kind and obedient child, and seeing the incredible woman she has become fills my heart with joy.