Originally from Sarlahi, Bijay Baral moved to Kathmandu in hopes of establishing a career in cinema. Instead, he stumbled into the theaters. However, it wasn’t long until he found a cameo role in the 2013 blockbuster, Chadke. Over the years, he has managed to establish a distinct identity in the Nepali film industry by portraying key roles in movies like ‘Kabbadi Kabbadi’, ‘Mr. Jholey’, and ‘Mr. Virgin’, among many others. At present, Baral is preparing for his next, ‘Pandit Bajeko Lauro’, and ‘Machha Machha’.
In conversation with My City’s Sonam Lama, Baral revealed five secrets unknown to many.
Baral elected as president of Nepal Engineers Association
Singing enthusiast
He has an affinity towards classical music. Along with contributing as a vocalist in a play called ‘Bill Gates Pandit’, he also lent his voice in the movie ‘Pashupati Prasad’.
"I don't shy away from singing when I am among friends, or even in public. Narayan Gopal and Bhaktaraj Acharya are my musical inspiration," said Baral.
Finds peace through meditation
A 10-day vipassana meditation in Kolkata changed his outlook on life. The experience helped him find the balance that he soughts for. Whenever his hectic schedule permits, he enjoys meditating. He has been planning to join vipassana soon.
Somnambulist
Besides his noteworthy acting skills, he is known among friends for his arcane trait of sleepwalking.
“I still remember the time when we had a sleepover in the theater after our play rehearsal. As load shedding was quite regular then, we had a generator at the theater. I don’t remember anything, but my friends say that I held an intense conversation with the generator in my sleep,” revealed Baral.
Keen traveler
Travelling piques his interest the most. He is fond of traveling in the peaceful alleys of a countryside. “Mustang is one of the places that captivated me. I was fascinated by its unique arid and desert-like landscape,” he shared.
Nature lover
Brought up in a crowded area in Sarlahi, is drawn towards the tranquility of nature. In his spare time, he enjoys indulging in gardening.