Artists in politics: Hope for change or thirst for power?
From screen to parliament: Actors, actresses, and creators step into politics, seeking to shape policy and serve the nation.
KATHMANDU: A well-known saying in Nepali society goes, “Artists are the jewels of the nation.” Yet, times are changing. Artists who once pledged to reflect society on screen and safeguard culture on stage are now stepping into the political arena, seeking seats in the country’s policy-making body, the parliament. With elections approaching, lips that once recited scripts are now busy delivering political manifestos and campaign slogans.
As the election draws near, political party offices are seeing more hustle than even film shooting sets. Actors, actresses, producers, and directors are queuing at party doors. Some well-established faces have secured positions on proportional representation lists, while others are taking on the challenge of direct elections.
For many artists, this election represents a new turn in their careers. After the polls on March 5, their fate—whether they will enter the House of Representatives as lawmakers or return to their old makeup rooms and sets—will be decided.
Amid this crowd, one voice stands out: actress Nisha Adhikari. Having filed her candidacy for the House of Representatives from Kathmandu-5, Nisha says her political venture is not merely a show of glamour. “I am here with a plan to dedicate the next 10 years to public service and politics. Entering politics must make a difference. I will be active in policymaking and parliamentary committees. As an artist, I have contributed to society, but in politics, I feel an even greater responsibility,” she stated. On her candidacy, she added, “Politics is not limited to attending parliament sessions. I am here to connect with the people, win their mandate, and then enter the House with their support.”
Society is divided on the involvement of artists in politics. While some view it as a pursuit of power and authority, others see it as the engagement of a young and conscious segment of the population.
Actress and host Reema Bishwakarma considers politics as the country’s core policy arena. “We are here in Nepal to contribute and act. When people are driven by a desire to serve, it becomes essential to participate in active politics to institutionalize justice rather than just raising one’s voice against injustice,” she said. She added, “An artist can express social awareness creatively, and politics channels that awareness into societal transformation, policy-making, and power management. Politics is not just about gaining positions. While parties may assign positions based on merit, what truly matters is how effectively one uses that position.”
The success of Balendra Shah, who transitioned from being a rapper to Mayor of Kathmandu, has inspired many artists. This time, the proportional representation lists for the House of Representatives feature a notable presence of artists, including former Miss Nepal Anushka Shrestha, acclaimed singer Prakash Saput, actress and host Reema Bishwakarma, and Dr. Rupak Ghimire, adding a vibrant cultural flavor to politics.
However, understanding political complexities and internal party dynamics has led some artists, like Aasif Sah and Dr. Trishala Gurung, to withdraw their candidacies at the last moment. Film director and analyst KP Pathak emphasized that artists entering politics must understand that parliament is not a film set with opportunities for retakes. “One wrong decision in parliament can impact generations. Artists who once highlighted societal wounds through their craft now face the challenge of creating laws and systems to heal those wounds. Integrating art, culture, and intellectual awareness into mainstream politics is their true test,” he said.
He further added, “Those who have patiently cultivated political culture over time last long in politics. In contrast, those who enter just because of popularity or reserved quotas often fail to sustain themselves. Artists generally lack patience, which makes it hard for them to endure in politics.”
March 5 will ultimately decide whether artists emerge as capable and dynamic leaders of the country or become mere decorative figures in party offices and parliamentary corners.
The outcome will not only determine individual victories or defeats but will also signal how open or closed the doors of politics will be for future generations of artists.
