Lazimpat. The actor has been receiving excellent reviews for his performance in the play directed by British director Gregory Thompson. Divya is also the associate artistic director of One World Theatre. In a chat with Republica, he shares how his journey began and the characters he wants to play.What were you doing before 'Hamlet'?
I've been performing for five years now. I made my debut in 2011 with the play 'Angels in America' where I played the character of Joseph Pitt who was struggling with his homosexual identity. Since then, I've been part of various Nepali films like 'Awaran,' 'Superhit,' and 'Nagarik' and plays like 'Sandajuko Mahabharat' and 'Poolbata Herda.' I was more involved in English plays than Nepali but English language plays in Nepal have a limited number of audiences. 'Hamlet' is only my fourth Nepali play. In the meantime, I also worked in many short films.
Did you always want to be an actor?
I was actually studying journalism when I discovered the magic of acting. I'm from Baitadi where as a young boy I used to participate in Ram Leela performances. I came to Kathmandu because I wanted to study journalism and I joined Ratna Rajya Campus for that purpose. The environment was exciting and I learnt about acting there. Then I left for Australia to continue my journalism studies but I was actually learning more about acting than journalism. I finally realized that acting was my true calling so I returned home and have been acting ever since.
You've done various roles over the years. What is your dream character?
It is every actor's dream to play Hamlet. This was a character I've always wanted to portray and now I'm living my dream. Subsequently, I'm looking forward to doing interesting films where I can play realistic characters. Roles focusing on intense emotions and inner conflicts appeal to me as an actor.
So what is next for you?
Acting is what I'm most passionate about in life. I feel very comfortable when I'm performing. All I want to do is hone my skills, get better, and learn more as I go. Although theater and films are both close to my heart, I'm considering focusing on films more in the future. The films I've been part of weren't very successful and that motivates me to try again.
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