Karishma Manandhar – The Evergreen Star of Nepali Film Industry
Karishma Manandhar is a celebrated Nepali actress, film producer, and politician whose influence spans across generations. Known for her elegance, acting talent, and later, her social activism, Karishma remains a cultural icon and a beloved figure in Nepal.
🔹 Profile Summary
-
Full Name: Karishma Manandhar
-
Real Name: Binu Manandhar
-
Date of Birth: February 9, 1974
-
Birthplace: Jharuwarasi, Lalitpur, Nepal
-
Profession: Actress, Producer, Politician
-
Debut Movie: Santaan (1988)
-
Spouse: Binod Manandhar
-
Children: Kabita Manandhar
-
Political Affiliation: CPN (Unified Socialist)
🎬 Acting Career
Karishma made her debut in Nepali cinema at just 17 years old with the film Santaan, where she starred opposite Bhuwan KC. The film’s success made her an instant star and a symbol of the evolving Nepali film industry of the late 80s and 90s.
🌟 Notable Films:
-
Santaan (1988)
-
Truck Driver (1994)
-
Basanti (2000)
-
Maya’s Bar (2012)
-
Fagu (2015)
-
Babu Saheb (also produced)
Karishma was known for her ability to portray both glamorous and emotionally complex roles, helping redefine the image of female characters in Nepali cinema.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
-
Multiple Best Actress accolades in national award ceremonies
-
Honored for her Lifetime Achievement in Nepali cinema
-
Recognized as a style and fashion icon in the 90s and early 2000s
👩💼 Political and Social Engagement
Karishma joined active politics in recent years and is affiliated with the CPN (Unified Socialist) party. Her entrance into politics signifies her broader commitment to social change, education, and women’s empowerment in Nepal.
She gained national praise for returning to complete her higher secondary education at age 47, sending a strong message about lifelong learning.
👪 Personal Life
Karishma is married to Binod Manandhar, and they have a daughter, Kabita Manandhar, who is also involved in the Nepali entertainment industry. Despite her celebrity status, Karishma is admired for her humility and grounded lifestyle.
🎯 Cultural Impact
-
A trailblazer for female representation in Nepali cinema
-
Role model for youth and adult learners
-
Continues to inspire with her journey from a teenage actress to a public intellectual and leader
📌 Trivia
-
She adopted the name “Karishma” to bring a modern appeal to her screen persona.
-
She lived in the United States for several years before returning to Nepal for acting and political work.
-
Known for supporting women’s rights, education, and health initiatives in rural Nepal.