Sitaram Kattel: Journey to becoming ‘Sonalal’ in Laaj Sharanam
Dhurmus had to undergo significant physical changes, including weight gain and a completely different facial appearance.
KATHMANDU: Sitaram Kattel, popularly known as Dhurmus, is one of Nepal’s most versatile actors, widely recognized for his roles in Meri Bassai, various telefilms, short films, advertisements, and movies.
Recently, his exceptional transformation in the film Laaj Sharanam has made headlines.
His portrayal of a unique character required immense dedication, hardship, and physical transformation, making his journey to the film one of perseverance and determination.
The Unexpected Role and Initial Hesitation
The script for Laaj Sharanam was written by Kumar Kattel ‘Jigri’ and his team, who initially envisioned Dhurmus for a crucial role.
When the Sakkigoni team approached him, he was taken aback and unsure if the character suited him. Dhurmus hesitated, doubting whether he could do justice to the role.
Despite the support and encouragement from director Kumar Kattel, his wife Kunjana Ghimire ‘Suntali’, actor Deepak Acharya ‘Kaku’, and Arjun Ghimire ‘Paadey’, Dhurmus remained reluctant. At one point, he even requested the director to assign him a different character instead.
However, the team was confident that he was the perfect fit, and after much persuasion, Dhurmus was finalized for the role.
A Grueling Physical Transformation
Taking on the role was no easy feat. Dhurmus had to undergo significant physical changes, including weight gain and a completely different facial appearance. One of the first steps in the transformation process was modifying his dental structure, for which he visited Muskan Dental Clinic in New Road.
The clinic’s operator, Muskan Shrestha, had previously contributed to creating iconic Meri Bassai characters like Khadka Ji, Muskan Pasa, and Khadananda Guru.
Alongside dental modifications, Dhurmus also needed to alter his facial structure. He consulted makeup artist Binod Shrestha, who suggested using a mask to achieve the desired look. However, the process was far from smooth.
During a trial to create the mask, the chemical used severely affected his scalp and skin, resulting in hair loss and skin damage. Dhurmus had to seek medical treatment at Cutis Care Hospital under the care of Dr. Dharmendra Karn.
Weight gain posed another major challenge. To embody the character, he needed to put on 10 kg. However, having previously suffered from high cholesterol and uric acid, weight gain was a health risk.
Dhurmus consulted Dr. Kurt, who initially advised against the transformation. However, under strict medical supervision, Dhurmus gradually started gaining weight.
As filming approached, his cholesterol and uric acid levels spiked again, causing severe joint pain and difficulty walking.
Exploring Alternative Casting Options
Due to the immense physical challenges, Dhurmus repeatedly considered stepping away from the role. The production team even explored alternative actors.
They learned that Bollywood star Govinda was interested in working in Nepali films, so they prepared a translated script in Hindi and sent it to him through lyricist and poet Dhirendra Premarshi. Although Govinda liked the role, he was unavailable due to prior commitments.
Dhurmus then reached out to veteran actor Rabindra Jha, believing he could bring the character to life. However, Jha was unable to gain the required weight in a short time and had other professional commitments, forcing him to decline. Eventually, Dhurmus realized he had no choice but to take on the role himself.
Filming in Harsh Conditions
Shooting for Laaj Sharanam was scheduled to begin in late April. However, unforeseen circumstances delayed production. During the break, Dhurmus, along with his wife Suntali, traveled to several European countries for Dhurmus Suntali Sanjh.
While in Europe, he conceptualized the final look for his character and contacted makeup artist Ganesh Achami, who suggested importing special materials from India.
After returning to Nepal, filming was rescheduled for late August. Dhurmus’ character was put through a sample test, and the production team was thrilled with the transformation. With excitement and determination, the team set out for Dolpa, the primary shooting location.
Dolpa’s high-altitude terrain posed additional challenges. Carrying excess weight made movement difficult for Dhurmus, and he struggled during physically demanding scenes. Upon returning to Kathmandu, his health deteriorated. His cholesterol levels had skyrocketed, and excessive fat accumulation in his blood required him to take blood-thinning medication.
He also had to undergo frequent ECG scans to monitor his heart condition. Towards the end of filming, painful rashes and blisters appeared all over his body, forcing him to seek skin treatment again from Dr. Dharmendra Karn.
A Performance Worth the Struggles
Despite the immense physical and emotional struggles, Dhurmus completed filming. His character is now gaining widespread recognition, with audiences and critics praising his dedication. The role, which he initially doubted, has become one of his most talked-about performances.
His transformation for Laaj Sharanam is now being compared to the intense physical transformations undertaken by global actors.
The film has not only showcased Dhurmus’ versatility but also highlighted his unwavering commitment to his craft.
