KATHMANDU: Deepak Raj Giri, who has served as an actor, story-screenplay writer, and producer for the highly popular comedy film franchise Chhakka Panja, is considered a master of witty and humorous conversation. From radio dramas to television series and cinema, he has achieved enviable success on all platforms through the comedy genre. Whether as Rambilas or Raja, the characters he has portrayed have been well-loved by the audience. Nepal News engaged in a dialogue of ‘tears,’ which is contrary to his usual public persona, with artist Giri, who is an expert at both laughing and making others laugh:

Have you ever been at a point where you were so overwhelmed that you couldn’t stop yourself from crying?

Obviously, and not just once but multiple times in life. Sometimes those who left made me cry, and sometimes those who stayed made me cry.

Have there been moments when you wanted to cry but could not?

The eyes want to cry, but the mind stops it, because they say a man is not supposed to cry.

Have you ever felt awkward because someone saw you crying?

One wears sunglasses specifically so that no one sees them crying.

Did you ever cry after falling in love?

In this world, when men cry, it is mostly because of women. Some cry begging for love; others cry after getting fed up while living together.

Have you cried in front of your girlfriend or wife?

Yes, I have cried in front of my wife. When words fail to convince, what option is left except to cry?

Have you felt like crying while watching a movie, hearing a story, listening to a song, or reading a book?

As a child, I used to cry while reading Swasthani (a month-long Hindu fasting ritual in Nepal), especially during the chapter on Nabaraj Brahman. Even now, when watching a film or reading a story, if it touches my feelings, tears come to my eyes instantly.

Have you ever cried after consuming alcohol?

That too has happened. I think alcohol also contains some sort of chemical mixture that heightens human emotions.