It's your time, Manisha

Outspoken, articulate and politically engaged, Manisha Koirala, the 55-year-old actor from Nepal, has boldly spoken her mind about the recent violent protests in her country, where unprecedented scenes of destruction unfolded as enraged protesters brought Kathmandu to a standstill.

- By SHOBHAA DE

Manisha, educated in Varanasi and Delhi, has a strong India connect. As an established actor in Bollywood, she is widely loved for her award-winning performances in iconic films like Bombay. As the turbulence raged in Nepal, she appealed for peace, while indirectly expressing support for the return of monarchy.

This did not surprise her compatriots and critics. In an old videoclip that went viral, Manisha described Nepal as a “Hindu nation”: “We were a peaceful Hindu rashtra with no conflict. Why was it (monarchy) removed?” Her response to the latest developments was more measured, but it was clear where her sympathies lie.