Actor Bipin Karki Discusses His Role in 'Kaji' and Career

Kathmandu. There is a huge difference between stardom and being an actor. A star is seen more as a star than a character on screen, while an actor is a living character of the story. Undoubtedly, Bipin Karki is an actor. Whichever role he plays in a film, it is difficult for the audience to recognize him as Bipin. Whether it's 'Bhasme Don' from 'Pashupati Prasad' or Phanindra from 'Jatra'. Bipin seems to be that character. 

Bipin, who formally trained in theater at Sunil Pokharel's 'Gurukul', entered acting. Although he debuted with the character Bindu in the film 'Chhadke', the character 'Bhasme Don' from 'Pashupati Prasad' made him a star overnight. In films like 'Jatra', 'Prasad', 'Gopi', 'Bhagwat Ek Gita', 'Selfie King', and 'Pahad', he is seen in different roles and with different dialogues. 

He doesn't just read the script; he takes references from real characters in society to bring the character's dialogue, gait, and nature to life. Bipin, who considers himself an artist rather than a 'hero', is currently in the spotlight due to the film 'Kaji'. Karki, who is set to appear as a devoted lover in 'Kaji', is also gaining attention in India due to his close relationship with Bollywood director Sandeep Reddy Vanga. 

An edited excerpt from an interview with the excellent actor Bipin focused on films, career, and acting in Ratopati's 'Star and Stories' (details can be watched and heard in the video):

What is your identity right now?

I am currently promoting the new film 'Kaji'. The film is releasing simultaneously in Nepal and abroad from Jestha 8. So, right now, my identity can also be Kaji. My permanent identity is Bipin.

They say it's difficult to get you to promote films, yet I see you promoting them?

I strongly refute this. How can I not promote? At the time of every film, I am directly connected with the media and the audience. During the time of the film 'Oon Ko Sweater', friends themselves told me that I promoted it more than necessary. In my opinion, promotion is also an integral part of filmmaking. Don't I also want my work to reach many people? An artist doesn't have the luxury of not giving time to promotion; I am clear about this.

What kind of role will you be seen in 'Kaji'?

In 'Kaji', I am playing a different character that I haven't played before. Mostly, the audience doesn't see me fitting into chocolate hero roles or simple love stories, but the love story in 'Kaji' is a bit different. It's a story woven in the context of 30-35 years ago. When you hear 'Kaji', many might think of a landlord or a powerful person. But in this, Kaji is a devoted lover. 

We have tried to establish Keki Adhikari and my pairing in this as a symbol like Munna-Madan or Romeo-Juliet from Nepali literature. It is a love story where the extreme of devotion is seen.

You said the film's love story will be remembered for years, what's so special about it?

Love means devotion. It shows how much a person can sacrifice for love. A person can be unhappy even with wealth, but the pain of love doesn't distinguish between rich and poor. The level of trust and understanding is deeply shown here. Its visual language is also very strong. It is a pure and deep love story, so I believe the audience will remember it for a long time.

They say it's difficult to get you to sign films, why?

I don't sign films easily; that's true. Because I make decisions by keeping the audience, more than myself, at the center. When signing a film, I don't just think about today; I am always pressured by what my audience will say when they go to the hall after the release. I don't have the right to break the trust that the audience has in me. 

I take a long time to read and understand the script. But once I get involved, I am very honest and easy to work with. I am only concerned about how the director molds me into the rhythm of the script.

You deeply connect with the audience through every character, what's the secret?

When I build a character, I always take references from real people we see in society. Every artist has their own style; my style is to portray local and typical characters on screen. When the audience sees characters on screen that resemble their neighbors, friends, or relatives, they easily relate. I pick characters from the community; perhaps that honesty is why the audience likes it.

After discussing many characters, do many people still recognize you as 'Bhasme Don'?

'Bhasme Don' is a milestone character in my career. It cannot be denied. It introduced me to the masses of Nepali audiences. But I think that shadow is slowly fading. Nowadays, many people also recognize me from characters like 'Selfie King', 'Phanindra', or 'Gopi'. Now, finally, they are starting to recognize me as 'Bipin Karki' rather than just a character. This is a matter of happiness for me.

There was a lot of talk about you working in the Bollywood film 'Animal', but it didn't happen, why?

I consider this a play of time. Nothing happens before its time. 'Animal' was missed due to incompatibility, but it has benefited me. I am still in touch with director Sandeep Reddy Vanga.

He respects me as a good artist. We will definitely work together in the future. Missing 'Animal' has not closed the door to Bollywood; rather, a better relationship has been formed. I know many people in Bollywood; the path to Bollywood is always open for me; I can play anytime.

Is there a possibility of seeing you on stage again?

Theater is my foundation. I really want to do plays, but it requires a lot of time. I have to leave film work for two to four months. I have a desire to do a good play, and I will definitely do it when I get the time.

Is it right or wrong for an artist to engage in politics? 

There is no written rule that artists should not engage in politics. But focusing on one job yields better results. However, having awareness about politics, the country, and society is essential for an artist. Without understanding where my country's politics is heading and what society is like, I cannot act vibrantly. An artist also has a responsibility towards the country and the people. Whether to be active in politics or not is a personal choice, but one must be aware.

Video/Photo: Manoj Khadka, Ayush Dhami/Ratopati