Upasana Singh Thakuri believes in creating art that not only entertains but also inspires. With Khusma’s huge success, Upasana is enjoying the spotlight. A Gen Z actor, Upasana is big on shaping her journey with meaningful roles.
In an interview with WOW’s Ankita Jain, Upasana talks about her career defining moments, Khusma, her goals and more. What did films mean to you growing up?
Growing up, films were more than just entertainment for me, it let me into different worlds, almost like an escape. Cinema was a huge part of my childhood and I remember being mesmerised by the magic of films, the emotions it evoked, and characters that stayed with me long after. Certain films inspired me and I realised early on that I wanted to be part of that world too; to create that same connection for others.
What are your career’s defining moments?
My career has been a journey of growth with each role offering valuable lessons and opportunities to push my boundaries as an artist. One of my most significant moments was realising the connection I could establish with my audience through storytelling, that understanding continues to shape my path today.
Every actor cherishes their first film, and for me, that experience was incredibly special. Then, being part of Kabaddi 3, one of Nepal’s biggest franchises, was a turning point especially given the overwhelming response it received. However, it was Khusma that truly transformed my career. This critically acclaimed film allowed me to be seen by audiences in a new light. When our song “Rukum Maikot” charted globally, reaching 59th on YouTube, it felt like a significant milestone for Nepali cinema. I am truly grateful for these moments and the support I have received, but I believe there is still so much more to explore and achieve.
What would you choose: a film with a good script or good actors? What are three things that are most important when selecting a project?
A film is a collaborative art form. While a strong script lays the foundation, actors who can bring the characters to life are just as important. I believe that both elements are equally important.
When choosing a project, three things that matter to me are:
– The script must resonate with me, either emotionally or creatively. I need to feel a spark.
– The passion of the team behind the film. A film is built on teamwork, and the energy of the people involved can make all the difference.
– The director’s vision. A strong, clear vision brings everything together and can elevate a project into something truly extraordinary.
Your most difficult film, Khusma, is also your most successful. Tell us about the filming experience.
Khusma holds a special place in my heart. It wasn’t just a film; it was an emotional journey for me. The script itself drew me in because of its rawness. I am always attracted to stories that mirror life in its truest form, where endings aren’t always happy but are full of meaning.
The filming process was intense. We shot in remote locations that required hours of walking because there were no roads for transportation. Physically, it was exhausting, but emotionally it was even more challenging. Khusma is a woman’s story, and I felt a deep responsibility to do justice to her journey. There were moments when I felt completely drained, but the love I had for the story and the incredible support from my team kept me going. In the end, the challenges only made the experience more rewarding. It was an epic adventure that changed me both as an actor and as a person.
Did you expect the song “Rukum Maikot” to reach such heights?
We knew “Rukum Maikot” was special from the moment we first heard it. It had this incredible energy and authenticity; it felt like a celebration of our culture. We all loved it instantly and had a feeling the audience would too, but to see it reach the global charts at 59th place was beyond our wildest dreams. It was a proud moment for all of us, especially for Nepal. I am just so grateful for the fans who made it happen.
The chemistry between you and Dhiraj Magar is beautiful. Can we expect more films together?
Definitely. The response we have received as an on-screen pair has been beyond our expectations. From fan edits to endless messages, it’s been overwhelming and heartwarming. I am glad to have such a natural working dynamic with him, and our well-wishers are already talking about wanting Khusma 2, and more projects from us. So yes, you can expect more from us in the future.
The portrayal of female leads is gradually changing in the Nepali film industry. Do you feel the change?
Yes, I can feel it, and it makes me incredibly proud. The industry is evolving, and we are finally seeing stories where female characters are given depth and significance. This year alone, we have seen several female-led films that have done so well at the box office, which is a huge step forward. When women are given space in stories, those scripts become richer, and we get to tell narratives that need to be seen and heard. It’s an exciting time, and I feel fortunate to be part of this wave of change.
What gives you the most joy apart from acting?
Spending time with my family is where I find the most happiness. My family, especially my sisters Jasmine and Aaradhya (Chantu), are everything to me. They ground me, and no matter where my career takes me, they are my constant source of joy and love.
Besides that, I love travelling; it opens up my mind and heart in ways that nothing else can. Meeting new people, experiencing different cultures, and hearing different perspectives – it’s all so enriching and it deeply influences my work as an actor. It’s a way for me to learn about humanity, which is what acting is all about.
Which performance of yours brought the biggest change in you?
Khusma, without a doubt. That film transformed me. The character I played became such a part of me that even now, I feel like parts of her still linger within me. I learned so much about empathy, patience and hope through her. The experience of living in Maikot, meeting the people there, and seeing life from their perspective changed me. I came back more grounded, more grateful, and with a deeper sense of peace.
What’s that one movie that you are most inspired by?
There isn’t just one. I have watched so many films, and each one has left an impression in its own way. Sometimes it’s a single scene, or a character’s journey, or a line of dialogue that resonates with me. Films that touch on human vulnerability, humility and kindness are the ones that inspire me the most. They remind me of the values I hold close and inspire me to stay true to who I am.
Which scene of yours from Khusma should be part of your highlight reel?
There are so many scenes that are dear to me, but the journey of Khusma waiting for her lover with hope, those moments are unforgettable. There’s something beautiful about hope. It’s what keeps us alive and moving forward, even in the most difficult times. That scene embodies everything I felt while working on the film.
Which one of Dhiraj Magar’s scenes stood out for you in Khusma?
Dhiraj is a talented actor, and he has delivered many powerful scenes. Two moments stand out for me: the scene where he loses his father and has that heart-wrenching conversation with his mother. He played it with such raw emotion that it felt completely real. The other one is our goodbye scene, where he leaves for another country. The way he approached that moment, with such sincerity and honesty, was just beautiful. It became our one of the most loved scenes by the audience.
What role does your family play in your journey?
My family is my backbone. They have supported me unconditionally from the very beginning, and I wouldn’t be where I am without them. My dad always tears up when he sees me on screen. My mom is my biggest critic, always pushing me to do better, and Jasmine, my sister is my rock. She’s been there for me in every high and low. In this unpredictable journey, my family has kept me grounded, and they are the reason I continue to follow my dreams.
What is the one thing you would never do for a role?
I would never take on a role that goes against my values or my authenticity as a person. As much as I love acting, it’s important for me to stay true to who I am, both on and off-screen.
What do you think the future holds for Upasana Singh Thakuri?
I hope the future holds exciting new projects, opportunities for growth and continued learning. But more than that, I hope it holds balance: time with my family, adventures that keep me grounded, and most importantly, peace of mind.
What is your ultimate goal?
My ultimate goal is happiness, but not just surface-level happiness. I am striving for the kind of happiness that comes from inner peace, from living a life that aligns with my values, and from creating art that not only entertains but also inspires.
Is there a milestone you want to achieve?
There’s so much I want to achieve, but I am keeping some of those dreams to myself for now
Tell us about your next film project.
I have just finished shooting for Ghar No. 2, which is the sequel to K Ghar K Dera. It’s a socially relevant film packed with humor, featuring an incredible cast and crew. I was particularly excited to be working with director Dipendra K. Khanal, who directed Pashupati Prasad, one of my all-time favourite Nepali films. I can’t wait for everyone to see it.
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