Singers & actors in one

KATHMANDU, Dec 12: Actors act and singers sing and a former lip-syncs the latter. But there are a few who dare to deviate from the norm and the real faces behind the voices manifest on the silver screen.

Admittedly, there are also a few who have graduated in this crossover in flying colors. But the fact remains that it takes a lot of courage to face the lens, audience and the critics. Lights, camera, action! [break]

Pabitra Subba

Considered one of the pillars of modern Nepali pop music scene, Pabitra Subba’s résumé runs the gamut from graphic designer and a prolific painter to actress in the later part of her career.

As the lead in Gagan Birahi’s 1997 Nepal-Japan venture “Miteri Gaun,” she donned the role of a naïve Thakali girl from Tukuche in Mustang who makes a life-altering journey to Toga in Japan. One of the first singers to have dared to venture out into the uncharted territory of cine world, she gets full marks for the efforts.

Nima Rumba

The “fair and handsome” lad from Tarai but now of Kathmandu surely is an expert when it comes to donning multiple hats on his “pro”-styled crop of hair. A convincing act in his music videos was further solidified in the Bhushan Dahal-directed “Kagbeni,” and rumor mills are abuzz that Rumba is again ready to rumble in a new flick.

Satya Raj Acharya

Whoever said “Singers can’t act” surely did not see or expect Acharya Junior’s portrayal of his father, veteran singer Bhakta Raj Acharya, in the eponymous “Acharya.” Superseding all expectations, Satya went on to wow critics, audience and even himself in the movie. He confessed that seeing himself on the silver screen was an almost surreal experience. “I looked like Dad.” Well, obviously, you have inherited his genes and the talents, too. Bravo!

Rajesh Payal Rai

And then there was a voice from the heavens: “Go earn a living through your voice.” If that scenario befits anyone, it has to be Rajesh Payal Rai. A tad bit too filmy? Well that is because we are talking about Mr. Rai, or as he calls himself, Rai is King.

Undoubtedly he is one of the best Nepali singers, now he is also on a mission to conquer a few million more hearts with his acting. Already a veteran of four films, he was the lead in director Uday Subba’s “Gundaraaj,” the VCDs of which are still selling like hot cakes, according to Mr. Rai. Looks like the name “Rajesh” (as is of Hamal’s, too) is a lucky mascot in Nepali film fraternity.

Sabin Rai

Red denim, chrome blue leather jacket that bares his midriff (just one ab pack, sorry Sabin!) and them knee-high boots! If there is anyone who can carry that ensemble with aplomb it is the beloved Dharaney Rocker Sabin Rai. Confidence could very well be his middle name, and he is gearing up to burn the silver screen in the movie “Chapali Heights.” Producer Arjun Kumar has high hopes regarding Rai’s foray into the reel world, and we ourselves can’t wait! Best of luck!