From Khusma to the National Film Award: Upasana Singh Thakuri’s Story

People
Entertainment
The Buzz Nepal
August 7 , 2025

Fresh off her National Film Award win, Upasana opens up about family, discipline, identity, and the quiet magic behind every role she chooses.

Recently awarded the 25th National Film Award for Best Actress for her powerful performance in Khusma, Upasana Singh Thakuri has carved a niche as one of Nepal’s most genuine and soul-stirring performers. With each role, she brings a delicate balance of vulnerability and inner strength—qualities that don’t just reflect on screen, but come from deep within.

“I bring a lot of myself to my roles—my fears, my childhood, my resilience… but sometimes, the character teaches me things I didn’t even know about myself—and that’s the magic of it.”

A Moment for the Heart

Winning the Best Actress award was more than just a professional milestone—it was personal.

“My first thought was of my brother, Kshitiz. I know how proud he would have been, and that made the moment even more special.”

Khusma demanded emotional depth, and Upasana met the challenge with sincerity. “It felt like a validation of all the work, but more importantly, of the love and passion I put into that story,” she shares.

Roots That Ground Her

Raised in a large, loving family, Upasana vividly recalls her childhood—particularly a memory from age six at her Thulo Mamu’s house, surrounded by cousins and the warmth of togetherness. “Even now, I carry that sense of belonging everywhere I go, even onto a movie set.”

Although her father was in the military, Upasana’s upbringing was anything but rigid.

“People expect a certain strictness, but my dad’s a softie. He pampered us so much. My discipline came more from wanting to make him proud than from any rules.”

Living Her Roles

When asked how much of her characters mirror her own personality, she reflects thoughtfully. “It’s a mix. I pull from my own life—my fears, my past—but some roles reveal parts of me I didn’t even know existed. That’s the beautiful give-and-take of acting.”

Every script she selects resonates with where she is emotionally and artistically. “I need to connect with the energy. I take my time, but every project reflects a version of me—someone grounded and deeply in love with storytelling.”

Honoring Legacy, Creating New Magic

Upasana’s current project involves reviving the iconic “Maitighar” song—originally performed by Mala Sinha and C.P. Lohani—an experience she describes as “humbling and deeply exciting.”

“It’s more than a song; it’s a part of our cinematic history. The challenge is honoring that legacy while making it feel new and relevant. That responsibility is immense, but I’m so grateful for it.”