Now, story is hero of film: Rekha Thapa

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Feb. 8: Actress Rekha Thapa has said that appearing on screen is not just about heroism.

Speaking at the panel discussion under the title ‘Yesterday’s Heroes, Today’s Heroes’ at the White House Literature Festival on Friday, she expressed her views on the changing perception of heroes in Nepali cinema.

“Heroism is not just about appearing on screen. Heroes bring hope to society. We should also look at how much work heroes have done in social transformation,” she said.  Heroes are not temporary but permanent, and that contribution is possible only through consistent effort, she added.

She further added that she dared to produce a film herself at a time when male-dominated films were prevalent.

Emphasising the importance of storytelling, Thapa said that in today’s time, it is not the individual but the story that takes the centre stage in films.

“Previously, only those in lead roles were considered heroes. Now, the definition has changed. Today, characters matter, and it is the story that becomes the hero. It seems as if the traditional concepts of hero and heroine are being changed,” she said.

She further added that society’s perception of heroes has changed over time.  At the same time, she also highlighted that the audience for Nepali films has, of late, been decreasing.

 She urged people to love Nepali films and encouraged the new generation to support and preserve them.

Similarly, actor Najir Husen said that if an ordinary person has a helpful attitude, they can be a hero for society.

“For me, a person who helps an elderly mother cross the road is a hero,” he said.  He emphasised that artists should also contribute to the social sector.