KATHMANDU: Actor Rajesh Hamal, currently in Australia, has drawn attention on social media over claims regarding a donation of Rs 2.1 million to the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund following disastrous flooding in Rasuwa. The actor traveled to Australia on Aug. 26 to attend the opening of a restaurant named 8848 Mom House, sponsored by its owner Hem Pyasi.

The visit coincided with severe flooding and landslides in Rasuwa on Aug. 26 that caused widespread damage. While various public figures and citizens initiated relief efforts, critics on social media questioned Hamal for not immediately declaring personal financial aid. Following the criticism, claims circulated online suggesting that the actor had donated Rs 2.1 million to the relief fund from Australia.

However, details from the event indicate that the sum was gathered through organized fundraising rather than a direct personal donation. In response to the disaster in Nepal, the restaurant opening was converted into a charity dinner in consultation with Hamal. Event organizers displayed a QR code for the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund, encouraging attendees to contribute voluntarily.

According to organizers, two charity dinners generated a total of Rs 2.1 million for the fund, with Rs 1.15 million raised from the first event and Rs 950,000 from the second. Official proof of the transfers has not yet been made public. A journalist associated with Hamal stated that the actor also made an undisclosed personal contribution via the QR code during the event.

The journalist added that Hamal is scheduled to host two additional charity dinners in Australia before returning to Nepal on the 10th of the month. Upon his return, the actor intends to meet flood victims directly and extend further assistance.