 |
| Biography of Manisha Koirala |
Manisha Koirala, affectionately known as Manu or Manya, is one of the most celebrated film actresses from Nepal, widely recognized for her remarkable contributions to Indian cinema. With a career spanning several decades, she has earned immense respect and admiration for her acting versatility and dedication. Manisha rose to prominence with her powerful performances in films such as 1942: A Love Story (1994), Agni Sakshi (1996), Gupt (1997), and Mann (1999). Her natural acting style and graceful screen presence made her one of the most acclaimed actresses of the 1990s and early 2000s. In addition to her cinematic achievements, she is actively involved in social work, advocating for causes related to women’s empowerment, children’s welfare, and cancer awareness through her involvement in various charitable organizations.
Born on 16 August 1970 in Kathmandu, Nepal, Manisha Koirala grew up in a family deeply rooted in Nepalese politics and social service. Her father, Prakash Koirala, is a former Nepalese politician who served in the Indian Embassy in Delhi, and her mother, Sushma Koirala, was a homemaker. Manisha spent most of her childhood in Delhi, India, where she completed her schooling. She has a brother, Siddharth Koirala, who also pursued a career in Bollywood. Manisha’s zodiac sign is Leo, and she holds dual nationality — Nepalese and Indian.
Manisha made her Bollywood debut in 1991 with the film Saudagar, which quickly established her as a promising new talent. Throughout the 1990s, she became a leading actress in Indian cinema, working with top directors and actors. Her personal life, however, often drew media attention due to her high-profile relationships and marriages. In 2010, she married American businessman Samrat Dahal, but the couple divorced in 2012. The same year, she faced one of the biggest challenges of her life when she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Manisha underwent treatment in the United States and made a full recovery. Her battle with cancer profoundly changed her outlook on life, inspiring her to become an advocate for cancer awareness. She later chronicled her journey in her book Healed: How Cancer Gave Me a New Life, sharing her story of courage, faith, and transformation.
A devout Hindu, Manisha identifies with both Nepalese and Indian heritage. She has a deep passion for traveling, exploring different cultures, and connecting with people from all walks of life. Beyond acting, she dedicates much of her time to philanthropy, contributing to various initiatives focused on health and education. Over the years, Manisha Koirala has received numerous awards and honors for her outstanding performances and humanitarian efforts, solidifying her position as one of the most respected and beloved figures in South Asian cinema.
Manisha’s educational journey reflects her determination and creativity. She completed her schooling at VKM, Varanasi, and Army Public School, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi. Later, she attended New York University, where she obtained a Diploma in Filmmaking, which enriched her understanding of cinema and storytelling. This academic background helped her expand her artistic perspective and engage in film projects beyond acting.
Throughout her life, Manisha Koirala has been linked with several notable personalities, including Vivek Mushran, Nana Patekar, Sandeep Chowta, Aryan Vaid, Prashant Chaudhari, DJ Whosane, and Cecil Anthony, among others. Although her personal relationships often made headlines, Manisha has always been open about her experiences and has used them as opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
In terms of physical appearance, Manisha Koirala stands tall at approximately 165 centimeters (5 feet 5 inches) and weighs around 63 kilograms (139 pounds). Her graceful figure, with measurements of 36-34-38 inches, along with her brown eyes and black-brown hair, enhances her timeless beauty. Known for her natural elegance and poise, Manisha maintains her health through regular exercise and mindfulness, which contribute to her enduring charm and confidence both on and off the screen.
When it comes to her personal preferences, Manisha Koirala has a refined and diverse taste. Her favorite color is white, which she finds peaceful and calming. She is an avid film lover, with favorite movies such as Masoom, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, A Gentleman, and Kaagaz Ke Phool. Her favorite director is Mani Ratnam, under whose direction she delivered some of her most memorable performances, and her favorite actor is Kamal Haasan.
Beyond films, Manisha loves reading and has a keen interest in literature. Some of her favorite books include The Idiot by Fyodor Dostoevsky, The World According to Garp by John Irving, and Fear of Fifty by Erica Jong. She also enjoys Ghazal music, particularly by Begum Akhtar and Mehdi Hassan, and prefers refreshing beverages like water, fresh lime soda, and strawberry cham. A fan of comic books, she grew up reading Tintin and Archie, and she draws inspiration from actresses such as Ingrid Bergman, Meryl Streep, and Whoopi Goldberg. Manisha also has a love for perfumes — her favorites being Private Collection and Skate. She enjoys playing basketball, and her favorite travel destinations are Kashmir and London, which she finds peaceful and picturesque.
Through her resilience, artistry, and grace, Manisha Koirala continues to inspire millions. Her journey from a small-town girl in Nepal to one of the most celebrated actresses in Indian cinema — and a cancer survivor who transformed her pain into purpose — reflects her strength, elegance, and indomitable spirit. Even today, she remains a symbol of empowerment and inspiration, admired not only for her cinematic achievements but also for her unwavering courage and compassion.