For the first time in her long and successful film career, actress Rekha Thapa has stepped into the world of theatre through the play ‘Meera’, written by Deepak Sinjali and directed by Sundar Dhital. The play is being staged at Kantipur Theatre, Gaushala, where Rekha is seen portraying two phases of the lead character Meera — as a teenager and as a woman in her mid-thirties.
The show started on Jestha 15 and has drawn wide attention from fans and theatre lovers alike. Rekha sees this new chapter as a meaningful step in her artistic journey.
A Refreshing Shift from Cinema
Though she has been a household name in Nepali cinema for over two decades, this is Rekha’s first time performing live on stage. She says theatre has offered her a completely new experience, different from the structured ‘action-cut’ rhythm of filmmaking. “On stage, I feel like I’ve recharged my artistic energy,” she shared.
Before accepting this role, Rekha had taken a two-year break from films, with her last release being Upahaar (2080). During that time, she was engaged in her television show Motherhood. The proposal for Meera came from Prakash Puri, director of Kantipur Theatre and Film Academy, and she gladly accepted it — even knowing the financial side of theatre may not be strong.
Rekha as ‘Meera’: A Full Immersion
Rekha plays the title role of Meera for nearly 90 minutes in each show without changing sets. She proudly says that theatre has helped her shed the “superstar image” she carries in films. “Audiences see me not as Rekha Thapa, but as Meera,” she said.
She also believes this experience will positively impact her future film roles, as feedback from viewers has praised her theatre performance as more powerful and dedicated than in cinema.
A New Artistic Purpose
The play Meera will run until Ashar 7 (June 21). But for Rekha, this is just the beginning. She now wants to continue exploring theatre — especially roles that reflect social transformation and women’s empowerment. She hopes audiences feel changed after watching her performances.
Rekha has also committed to supporting Nepali theatre in multiple ways — from acting to producing and even directing in the future. She wants to create strong platforms for young, upcoming actors and help establish a more vibrant theatre culture in Nepal.
From Film Debut to Iconic Status
Rekha Thapa entered the film industry in 2001 with Hero, playing a supporting role. But it didn’t take her long to establish herself as one of the top actresses in Nepali cinema. Her bold and confident on-screen presence quickly made her a favorite among filmmakers.
Known for portraying strong female characters, Rekha’s films often focus on women’s rights, empowerment, and social issues. This helped reshape the portrayal of women in Nepali movies, moving beyond just glamour.
200+ Films and Still Going Strong
Over her career, Rekha has acted in more than 200 films, including hits like Kali, Rampyari, Kismat, Damdaar, and Sahara. She has also worked as a producer and director, showing her versatility and commitment to the film industry.
While the spotlight may have dimmed slightly in recent years as audiences seek more meaningful stories and performances, Rekha’s new venture into theatre proves she is evolving with time — and still passionate about her art.
