The cultural ties between India and Nepal have existed for centuries. Currently, as Nepal faces turmoil due to ongoing protests, numerous Indian citizens have expressed their support. This deep-rooted connection is evident in the lives and careers of several Indian celebrities who trace their roots back to Nepal. Here’s a list of seven popular Indian stars with Nepali ancestry.
1. Manisha Koirala: Born in Biratnagar, Nepal, Manisha Koirala hails from a prominent political family. She is the granddaughter of Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala, former Prime Minister of Nepal. Her father, Prakash Koirala, is a former Cabinet minister who held portfolios related to Environment, Science, and Technology in Nepal.
While discussing the situation in Nepal, Manisha posted 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: Born in Kathmandu, Nepal, to a Marwari family, Rohit Saraf moved to Delhi with his family and was raised there. He later relocated to Mumbai at the age of 15 to pursue acting. Despite being away from Nepal, Rohit expressed support for the citizens and mourned the loss of life during 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: Comedian and actor Bharti Singh has Nepali roots on her father’s side. Reports indicate her father was of mixed Indian and Nepali heritage. She has openly discussed her connection to Nepal and her fondness for 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 spanning over five decades. He has acted in over 190 films and was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honor.
5. Udit Narayan: Singer Udit Narayan’s father was reportedly a Nepalese national. He was born in the Baisi village of the Supaul district in Bihar, India, at his maternal grandparents’ home near the India-Nepal border.
6. Mala Sinha: Veteran actress Mala Sinha’s parents were Christian Nepali immigrants to West Bengal. She acted in a Nepali film called ‘Maitighar’ in 1966. In the same year, she married Nepali actor Chidambar Prasad Lohani.
7. Sunil Thapa: Sunil Thapa is a popular Nepali actor who has been featured in several Indian movies. He has appeared in films like Ek Duuje Ke Liye, Aaj Ki Awaaz, Manav Hatya, and Bandhu, among others. He has also worked in numerous Bhojpuri films.
