IT student Bhattarai a rising star in Nepali music video

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, May 14: A student of Information Management (IT), Sanisha Bhattarai, has taken the Nepali music videos by storm. Despite being an IT student, the 21-year model has been successful in establishing herself as a rising star in the Nepali entertainment industry. 

She has been in the limelight since the release of her first official music video ‘A Hora Maya,’ composed by Bimal Adhikari.  The duet by Himal Sagar and Annu Chaudhary, released five months back, was a smash hit. It has drawn more than 21 million views on the YouTube channel alone. Bhattarai stars with Adhikari, who is also the lyricist of the song, in the music video. 

She had no prior experience in modelling and acting. The young model’s keenness on singing, dancing and acting triggered her to model music video when Adhikary approached her for ‘A Hora Maya’ via Instagram. 

Nonetheless, the young model’s confidence and dedication paid off, drawing many offers from music video producers. 

Prioritising her education, she has modelled in selected few music videos. In five months, her six music videos were released on YouTube. After her official debut went viral, Bhattarai modelled in ‘Saili’, ‘Thito Jhapako’, ‘Bhetula Kaha’, ‘Ustai Cha Maya’ and ‘Timilai Herne Bani Paryo’. 

Her latest ‘Timilai Herne Bani Paryo’ – sung by Annu Chaudhary – is also trending on YouTube and other social media. In its female version, she has been cast with Nepali music video star Paul Shah. The song released on Thursday is the first music video of Shah after his release from jail. 

Currently studying in the sixth semester of a Bachelor of Information Management in Pokhara, Bhattarai credits her family for the support in her foray into modelling. “I would not be able to step into this field without my parent’s consent and their supportive role. They always push me to do better in my life. Especially, my father supports me a lot as he loves the entertainment field.” 

When asked about her plan, the young model said her priority would be to complete her study. “I am planning to take both study and modelling career side by side. I cannot leave my education for the sake of modelling. I prefer to go ahead balancing both my study and modelling career.”

Besides, the model also plans to improve her acting skills and establish herself as a sought-after model soon.  “There is a tough competition everywhere and I being a novice model had to work a lot. In addition, acting has become a part of music videos these days. One must possess sound acting skills to be shortlisted in the eyes of music video directors. For that, I am planning to join acting classes.” 

Bhattrai’s rise in the industry has not come without its challenges. She acknowledges the gender biases, limited opportunities and safety concerns faced by female artists in the Nepali entertainment industry. “With increased awareness and advocacy for gender equality, the challenges of the industry can be addressed and overcome,” she believes. 

Reflecting on her experience, the young model stated that she had not faced any bad or misbehaved situation yet.  She, however, is determined to fight against any misbehaviour. “I won’t be tolerating any misbehaving acts. I am strong against fighting for myself.” 

She also advised those who want to pursue a career in acting in music videos to have a strong passion, determination, and dedication and to equip themselves with the necessary skills like acting and dancing.