KATHMANDU: Hari Bansha Acharya, successful in genres including acting, singing, writing, and comedy, is one of the country’s most popular artists.

Although he has earned special fame in the genre of satire, he has demonstrated his versatile acting abilities through numerous films such as Tan Ta Sarai Bigris Ni Badri, Balidan, Mahapurush, and Bhuthan. Acharya is also the author of the books China Harayeko Manchhe and Hari Bahadur.

Having witnessed everything from the partyless Panchayat system and the multiparty system to democracy, the republic, and federalism, and even the Gen Z protest, Acharya is a witness to political ups and downs. A special election dialogue held by Nepal News with Acharya on the eve of the election:

Artists seem to be very caught up in the election fever. Did you also receive any offers to become a candidate?

I also received an offer to enter politics. However, artistry is my passion, and I can only live through it.

What lessons should be learned from the failures of artists previously active in politics?

When artists enter politics, the country could face challenges similar to those experienced by Ukraine.

Hari Bansha Acharya casting his vote in the 2022 Local Election. Photo Courtesy: Acharya/Facebook

How should the relationship between artists and politics be?

Our satire genre and the role of opposition parties in politics are similar. We raise our voice against chaos from outside the assembly, while opposition parties inside often act opportunistically.

What do you think while casting your vote in the ballot box?

I pray, “Oh God! Make the country wealthy, not the leaders.”

To what extent do you feel the votes cast so far have been well-utilized?

I hope I never hear that a leader I voted for was dishonest. But after one’s head rots, what can the legs do?

Why do voters often believe new candidates are better than old ones?

I want a photo of a leader I can be proud of on my wall. If the old leaders didn’t provide that, the new ones should. They must show difference.

What difference do you see in leaders before and after elections?

Leaders come as humans during elections, but after winning, they act like monkeys.