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In the second edition of the Tikapur Literature Festival, actors Sunil Pokharel and Diya Maskey were among the speakers. Representing two different generations of Nepali theater, they discussed the past and present of Nepali theater, focusing on professionalism and financial sustainability.
Speaking at the session, moderated by arts journalist Sushila Tamang, Sunil Pokharel stated, “Our theater has paved the way, but the highway is yet to be built. I don’t know how to make theater a commercial success. We talk about professionalism, but I am unsure how professional theater should be.”
Diya Maskey emphasized that professionalism is not just about making money. She clarified that theater is not a money-making platform, saying, “Professionalism should be measured by the quality of our work, even if it isn’t widely popular. Theater has the power to transform society.”
Sunil Pokharel also shared why he chose theater, saying, “The reason I pursued theater is that I didn’t know anything else. Perhaps it’s my passion. Acting in plays gives me joy.”
He expressed happiness over the increasing number of theaters in cities, stating, “All these theater spaces we see today started with Gurukul.”
He also highlighted how theater teaches people life skills, saying, “Theater broadens our perspectives, makes us more tolerant, and gives us the strength to handle disagreements.”
Diya Maskey pointed out that many young artists are getting involved in theater, though many enter with the dream of making it into films. “It is said that the younger generation is becoming more interested in theater. Many actors have gained fame in cinema, and that’s why 80% of students come to theater with the hope of transitioning to films,” she remarked.
She urged actors who transitioned from theater to film to return, stating, “If you have moved to films, come back to theater! This is your foundation. Do theater! Let your popularity benefit the stage as well.”
