KATHMANDU: Benisha Hamal, born on July 25, 1992, in Chitwan, Nepal, is a distinguished Nepalese radio jockey, model, and actress, celebrated for her remarkable contributions to Nepali cinema and entertainment. Her career trajectory is a testament to her dedication and multifaceted talent, having worked in over a dozen films and more than one hundred music videos. Notably, she received a national award in 2018 for her performance in Blind Rocks, highlighting her status as one of the most accomplished actresses in the industry.

Early Life and Education
Benisha Hamal was born to Bheshraj Hamal and Shakuntala Hamal and spent her formative years in Chitwan. Her early education was completed at Golden Future Boarding English School, followed by her School Leaving Certificate (SLC) from Arunodaya Higher Secondary School. For her +2 education, she attended Shanti Academy in Bharatpur. Determined to pursue higher education, Benisha moved to Kathmandu in 2007, where she completed her Bachelor’s degree in English and Mass Communication from Kantipur College of Business Management and Humanities. She further pursued her Master’s degree at Goldengate International College. Outside her professional commitments, Benisha is known for her love of reading novels and watching movies. Her favorite Nepali actor is Rajesh Hamal, and she holds Karishma Manandhar in high regard as her favorite actress. Additionally, Benisha is an avid cricket fan and admires former national captain Paras Khadka.

Career Beginnings and Rise to Prominence
Benisha’s career began in radio broadcasting. She worked as a radio jockey (RJ) for Kalika FM in Bharatpur, where she gained recognition by securing the second runner-up position in the “Ideal RJ” competition organized by the station. Her charismatic presence soon earned her opportunities as a video jockey (VJ) on prominent Nepali TV channels such as Channel Nepal, NTV Plus, and NTV.
In 2009, Benisha ventured into modeling, making a name for herself in the industry. She appeared in numerous TV commercials, showcasing her versatility and screen presence. Some of the notable ads she featured in include campaigns for Yum Yum Noodles, Rio Juice, UTL, Rose Village Housing, Nova Ice-cream, and Wego Scooty. Her charm and talent were evident in these early ventures, paving the way for her film career.

Music Video Appearances
Before making her debut in the film industry, Benisha gained significant exposure through music videos. Her first appearance was in Sindhuli ko by Paul Rai. Over time, she expanded her repertoire to include appearances in various popular music videos, such as Timi Arkai Ghar Ko Manche by Hementa Sharma, Aau milli by Buddha Shakya, Tadha by Babin Pradhan, Chot Khada Khada by Manoj Raj, and Ek Patak by Rupa Bista. These projects demonstrated her acting skills and laid a strong foundation for her film career.

Debut in Film and Breakthrough
Benisha Hamal made her debut in the Nepali film industry with the movie Swor – The Melody of Dreams in 2010, directed by Prasanna Poudel. Although her role in this debut film did not immediately catapult her to stardom, it marked the start of a promising career. In 2012, she appeared in Luck and Jyaan Hajir Chha, where she showcased her evolving acting abilities.
Her performance in the 2014 film Mokshya as Smriti earned her critical acclaim and significantly raised her profile. The film, noted for its poignant storytelling and powerful performances, cemented Benisha’s reputation as an actress capable of handling complex roles. This success led to more significant opportunities in the industry.

Versatile Performances and Continued Success
Benisha’s filmography continued to grow with roles in movies such as Mahasush (2013), Kalo Pothi (2016), and King Returns (2017). In Kalo Pothi, she played the role of Kiran’s sister, which showcased her ability to contribute meaningfully to an ensemble cast in a film that was celebrated for its depth and authenticity.
Her role in Jhyanakuti (2017) as Malati also added to her versatility, as she skillfully portrayed a character with emotional depth. The same year, she played Aarati in King Returns, further demonstrating her range and willingness to explore different genres.
Benisha’s performance in Blind Rocks (2018) was a defining moment in her career. Portraying the character of Shristi, she delivered an emotional and powerful performance that won her several accolades, including a national award. The film was lauded for its impactful storytelling and the authenticity of its characters, and Benisha’s work stood out as a highlight.

Recent Works and Recognition
In recent years, Benisha Hamal has continued to evolve as an actress. Her role in Chhakka Panja 4 (2023), part of the hit Chhakka Panja series, was well-received, solidifying her presence in mainstream cinema. The film, known for its humor and social commentary, showcased her comedic timing and her capacity to engage audiences.
Benisha also starred in Chi Musi Chi – Even Dead Desire Belonging in 2023, where she played Dr. Meera, a role that required a mix of emotional depth and intensity. This performance was praised for its nuanced portrayal and contributed to her reputation as one of the most talented actresses in the industry.
In 2024, she was featured in the film Upahaar, which has garnered attention for its unique narrative. Although details about her role have yet to be widely shared, her involvement in this project reflects her commitment to taking on diverse and meaningful roles.

Benisha Hamal’s journey in Nepali cinema is a testament to her perseverance and talent. From her early days as an RJ and VJ to becoming an award-winning actress, her career has been marked by growth and dedication. With standout performances in films like Mokshya, Blind Rocks, and Chhakka Panja 4, Benisha has proven herself as a versatile and capable actress. Her recent and upcoming projects, including Upahaar, promise to add even more depth to her impressive filmography. As she continues to captivate audiences with her performances, Benisha Hamal remains a prominent figure in the landscape of contemporary Nepali cinema.