Khusi Karki: From Dance Reality Star to Silver Screen Debut

Kathmandu. Khusi Karki is the lead actress of the film 'Ram Naam Satya'. Karki, who gained popularity two years ago as the winner of the dance reality show 'Mero Dance Universe', is making her debut as an actress on the silver screen with this film.

In the film, she is seen paired with actor Biraj Bhatta. Regarding a song in the film, the audience trolled their pairing, calling them grandfather and granddaughter. She, however, states that their pairing is appropriate according to the film's story.

The film is set to release next Friday (27 Chaitra). Karki, who resides in Thailand, is currently in Nepal for the film's promotion. Ratopati posed a dozen questions to actress Khusi regarding the film 'Ram Naam Satya' and her acting experience:

• You are appearing in a film two years after winning the 'Mero Dance Universe' title; how did you spend this time in between?

Along with the 'Mero Dance Universe' title, I received opportunities. Initially, I worked on music videos. While working on music videos, I started learning acting. As I was learning, offers for various films started coming in. Among them, 'Ram Naam Satya' felt right. I decided to make the most of this opportunity.

• What was the experience like for someone coming from a dancing platform to work on the big screen?

I have gathered very different experiences. In the dance reality show, our focus was only on dance and how to make every episode better. But film acting is a bit different. Here, dance alone is not enough; one needs to be good at acting, facial expressions, and dialogue delivery. I found the world of film more challenging and different than the dance show.

• What preparations did you have to make to become an actress from a dancer?

I did a lot of preparation! I did workshops for acting, rehearsed for songs, and spent time mingling with the team. I also prepared myself in terms of language.

• You mentioned there were many film offers; why did you choose 'Ram Naam Satya' for your debut?

After winning the 'Mero Dance Universe' title, I gained good popularity both in the country and abroad. With that popularity, film offers started coming in. In some of the films offered, I didn't feel I fit the character, and some I didn't feel like doing. I couldn't do some due to various reasons. However, the story of 'Ram Naam Satya' touched my heart. Even though my scenes in the film are few, they are important. I chose it because I had the opportunity to work with legendary artists like Biraj Bhatta. Just starting my career, I needed an environment to learn rather than someone to teach me, which I found here.

• What kind of role will the audience see you in the film?

My character's name in the film is also 'Khusi'. Many of you might have always seen me happy and smiling, but I am in a slightly different role in the film. You will get to see my acting in a different way. In this, Biraj sir and I have presented a love story with an age gap. I cannot reveal more than that. You have to watch the film to know everything.

• There was also trolling about your pairing with Biraj Bhatta as grandfather and granddaughter; how did you feel?

Many had guessed that I would be paired with Ayush Singh Thakuri based on the poster released initially for the film's casting and promotion. But later, when I was seen with Biraj sir in the film's song, everyone was surprised. That is why many talked about the age gap. In reality, the story and character of this film demand exactly that. After watching the film, the audience will understand this clearly.

• What was the experience of working with actor Biraj Bhatta like?

Initially, I was very nervous because he is a legendary actor. Being an action hero, he looks scary from the outside. But he is very soft-hearted and sweet. He didn't let me get nervous and taught me many things. It was very easy for me to work with him. I got a chance to refine myself through this film acting.

• Is there any memorable moment during the shooting?

We were shooting in Dailekh. On the very day I reached the shoot, a goat kid was born there; I felt very lucky. But surprisingly, the next day our unit prepared to slaughter a neighbor's goat to eat. After seeing that, I felt so much affection that I stayed vegetarian for the whole day.

• The film is releasing next Friday; what fear or excitement do you have in your heart regarding this?

I have both. I am nervous because it is my first film with my acting. Whether my acting was according to the film's story, and what kind of reaction the audience will give me as a heroine! Until some time ago, there was talk of our film clashing with two other films. Now it is having a solo release, which is a plus point for us. So I am also excited. I am also optimistic about getting a good response from the audience.

• Will you continue acting in films or is this enough?

Film offers are still coming in. But I am waiting for the audience's reaction to my work in 'Ram Naam Satya' first. After the audience's feedback, I will definitely appear in other films while refining my acting.

• If you hadn't come into films, what would you be doing now?

I am continuing my studies along with my work. If this film opportunity hadn't come, I would probably be studying while living in Thailand. My bachelor's is finished, so I would probably be busy with an internship or further studies.

• Finally, what do you want to say to the audience?

'Ram Naam Satya' is my first film. You have given a lot of love to the teaser, trailer, and songs. Now the film is coming to theaters, please watch it and give your reviews. If there are any shortcomings in me, please tell me so that I can improve them next time. Everyone please go to the theater and watch the film. Please show love to Nepali films.