The Buzz Nepal Cover Story: Benisha Hamal in Her Power Era

People
The Buzz Nepal
March 8 , 2026

Acting, Creating, Inspiring

With over 15 years in the Nepali film industry, Benisha Hamal stands at a defining moment in her creative journey. Known primarily as an actress, she is now expanding her role into filmmaking, shaped by experience, curiosity, and a deep commitment to storytelling. Currently balancing multiple projects at various stages of development and release, the coming months mark an especially dynamic phase, with films set to premiere across different genres. It is a period defined by momentum, reflection, and an evolving artistic vision.

You began your journey as an RJ and VJ before moving into films. How did those early media experiences shape the actor you are today?
My time as an RJ and VJ taught me confidence, spontaneity, and how to connect with people from all walks of life. It sharpened my listening skills, which I believe are crucial for an actor. Those early experiences made me comfortable in front of the camera and microphone, but more importantly, they helped me understand human behavior, something I carry into every role.

Was there a particular role that made you feel, “Yes, this is why I chose cinema”?
Blind Rocks was a defining moment in my journey. Portraying Srishti KC was deeply transformative, shaping me both as an actor and as a person, and the impact of that experience has stayed with me long after the film’s release. Another pivotal project was Kalo Pothi, which reinforced my commitment to cinema and strengthened my belief in honest, courageous, and meaningful storytelling.

You’ve balanced commercial films and content-driven cinema. How do you decide which stories are worth telling?
It always begins with honesty. I ask myself whether the story carries emotional truth and if the character offers me something new to explore. Commercial cinema has its own responsibility, while content-driven films allow deeper introspection. I don’t see them as opposites, both can coexist when the storytelling is sincere.

Nepali cinema is slowly changing in how it writes women. What changes have you personally witnessed?
I’ve seen women characters evolve beyond being merely romantic interests or supporting figures. Today, they have agency, flaws, ambitions, and inner conflicts. While there is still a long way to go, the shift toward more layered and human portrayals is encouraging.

Are there genres or platforms you’re eager to explore next?
Yes, absolutely. OTT platforms excite me because they allow for more nuanced storytelling. Theatre also deeply interests me, it demands honesty and discipline. International collaborations are another space I would love to explore, especially stories that transcend cultural boundaries.

What role does self-love play in sustaining healthy relationships, especially in a demanding industry?
Self-love is foundational. Without understanding and respecting yourself, it becomes difficult to build healthy connections with others. In an industry that constantly evaluates you, self-love becomes both survival and strength.

How would you describe the feeling of a meaningful connection, without trying to define it?
It feels safe. It feels seen. It’s the quiet comfort of being understood without needing to explain yourself.

How do you measure progress when success isn’t always visible?
I measure progress through growth, how I handle failure, how honest my performances feel, and whether I remain curious and passionate about my craft. Sometimes progress is internal, and that’s enough.

If you weren’t an actor, what alternate life do you imagine for yourself?
If I weren’t an actor, I’d likely work with children or animals. That’s where I feel happiest, pursuing a path that brings peace, harmony, and truly resonates with me.