Introduction

Paul Shah is a Nepali actor, model, and dancer who rose to fame through music videos and became a leading romantic hero in the Nepali film industry. Known for his charming looks, energetic performances, and wide fanbase, he has been a favorite among teenagers and young adults since the early 2010s. While his career saw meteoric success, it has also been marked by legal controversies, adding complexity to his public image.

Early Life and Background

• Full Name: Purna Bikram Shah (professionally known as Paul Shah)

• Date of Birth: February 22, 1992

• Place of Birth: Dang District, Nepal

• Nationality: Nepali

• Profession: Actor, Model, Dancer

• Height: Approximately 5’11”

• Education: Completed secondary education in Dang

Paul Shah initially worked behind the camera as a video editor, but his charisma and camera presence quickly transitioned him to an on-screen career in modeling and acting.

Career Beginnings: Music Videos

Paul began his career by appearing in Nepali music videos, where he quickly became a heartthrob. With his expressive eyes, romantic persona, and strong dancing skills, he starred in hundreds of music videos—especially in the genres of modern pop, folk, and sentimental songs.

Some of his most popular music videos include:

• “Sanjha Pakha”

• “Ko Hola Tyo”

• “Jail Pani Sahula”

• “Phuteka Chura”

He is often credited with reviving the popularity of music video actors in Nepal.

Entry into Nepali Cinema

Debut Film: Nai Nabhannu La 4 (2016)

Paul Shah’s film debut in the romantic drama Nai Nabhannu La 4 was an instant hit and established him as a bankable lead actor.

Notable Films

He is frequently paired with actresses like Pooja Sharma and Barsha Raut, and has often portrayed romantic leads, tragic lovers, and underdog heroes.

Acting Style and Public Persona

Paul Shah is known for:

• Heartfelt romantic roles

• Dance-oriented performances

• A blend of innocence and intensity on screen

• Versatile fashion and physical appeal

He is among the few actors in Nepal to successfully transition from music videos to leading film roles with consistent box office appeal.

Legal Issues and Controversy

In early 2022, Paul Shah was embroiled in a major legal case:

• Accused by a minor singer of sexual misconduct

• Arrested and went through extensive media scrutiny and court proceedings

• Found guilty of child sexual abuse, and served time in jail

• Released later under conditions of sentence reduction

This controversy divided public opinion—while many fans remained supportive, others questioned his return to the entertainment industry. Despite the setback, Paul Shah has expressed intentions to resume his career post-release.

Awards and Recognition

Before the legal controversies, Paul Shah earned:

• Popular Actor of the Year – NEFTA Awards

• Best Debut Actor – For Nai Nabhannu La 4

• Recognized as one of the Most Handsome Actors in Nepal

• Numerous fan-based social media awards

 

Cultural Impact

Despite his legal issues, Paul Shah remains:

• A cultural phenomenon in terms of youth appeal

• A pioneer in music video-to-film crossover success

• An influencer in style, romance-themed acting, and music video production

• A symbol of how fame, fandom, and accountability can intertwine in modern Nepali celebrity culture

Conclusion

Paul Shah is a talented and controversial figure whose career reflects both the dreamlike rise of a self-made star and the harsh realities of public scrutiny and legal responsibility. Whether through music videos, movies, or public headlines, he remains one of the most talked-about names in Nepali entertainment. As he attempts to return to the screen, his story continues to evolve—and so does his impact on the industry and audiences alike.