He is the man who made it to every Nepali household, touched more than a million hearts and got every age group from children to adults glued to the television set after dinner every Thursday. Deepak Raj Giri earned his fame as the most appreciated actor and comedian of the longest running sitcom of Nepal ‘Tito Satya’. As an actor, comedian, director, producer, and writer Giri has proved to be one of the most talented and versatile artists of the country. His recent movies Cha Ekan Cha, Wada Nambar Chha and Chakka Panja have gained great accolades. Here is a conversation with Deepak Raj Giri you wouldn’t want to miss.
Have you always been interested in acting?
I started my career as a radio artist and have always been a person who loves creativity. I love entertaining people and bringing joy to peoples’ lives. It gives me immense pleasure when people not only appreciate my work but also enjoy watching me on screen. Doing what I love has always been my priority and acting was definitely on top of the list.
What do you do when you get time away from acting?
Different places and strange things amuse me. Exploring new things and meeting new people are things I enjoy a lot. I also enjoy spending time with my friends and family. When I get time from work, I try to be around those who inspire and encourage me, and also ones who make me happy.
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Who is your favorite co-star?
Every person I have ever worked with has helped me become what I am today. There have been many talented individuals who have helped me evolve as an actor. Yet, if I had to pick one among the many talented co-stars, it would definitely be Deepa Shree Niraula. We have shared a long journey in acting together. She is special to me because we have struggled simultaneously to establish ourselves in this industry.
Can you tell us about a memorable moment from the past?
Among the many joyous moments that I was blessed to have in my life, passing the S.L.C examinations was definitely the happiest one. I never got good grades during my school days because I was not a studious person. Nevertheless, I have now completed Bachelors in Humanities and I encourage every student to dedicate their time to studying. Education is imperative in every profession. It helps in strengthening your skills and expanding your creativity.
Directing, acting, producing, and writing; which among these is your favorite?
These are all different kinds of art forms and comparing them is an extremely difficult, and unfair, task. However, acting has been my passion and it will always remain my favorite. My audiences love me and know me as Deepak Raj Giri today because of my acting. So, I think, it’s safe to say that none of others can take the place of acting in my life.
What is the one thing that not many know about you?
As a child I was extremely naughty. Many of my friends were told by their parents to stay away from me because of my naughtiness. I’m still a fun loving person and the child in me has not grown up yet.
(As told to Swasti Gautam)