Karma Shakya

Karma (born Mahesh Man Shakya) is a Nepali film and theatre actor. He made his feature film debut in Sano Sansar and has since appeared in films including Loot (2012), Kathaputali - The Puppet (2021), Lukamari (2016), Love Sasha (2017), Suntali (2014) and First Love (2010). In 2024, he appeared in Shambhala, directed by Min Bahadur Bham, which premiered in the Official Competition at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival. Shambhala became the first Nepali film selected for the Berlinale festival's main competition.

Early life and education

Karma was born Mahesh Man Shakya in Kathmandu, Nepal. He studied at St. Xavier's School in Kathmandu before continuing his education in Pune, India. Drawn to acting from an early age, he trained in performing arts at the Gurukul School of Theatre in Kathmandu, graduating in 2007. He later continued his training at Studio 7–Naga Theatre under the mentorship of theatre director Sabine Lehmann.

Career

Karma began his acting career in theatre before being cast in the lead role of Sano Sansar (2008), marking his feature film debut. He subsequently established himself in the Nepali film industry through performances in films including Loot, Suntali, First Love, Love Sasha, Lukamari and Kathaputali, appearing in both commercial and independent productions.

In addition to his film work, Karma has remained active in theatre and has appeared in numerous music videos and commercial campaigns. He has also showcased his singing and dancing in several productions, including performing the song "Ghintang Ghisi Twak" in Lukamari.

Nepali actor Karma Shakya on the red carpet at the world premiere of Shambhala during the 74th Berlin International Film Festival (Official Competition).

In 2024, Karma portrayed Ram Sir in Shambhala, directed by Min Bahadur Bham. The film premiered in the Official Competition at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival, becoming the first Nepali film selected for the festival's main competition.

Karma continues to work on both national and international productions.

Filmography

Feature films

Short films

YearFilmRoleNotes 2023 La Symphonie des Marteaux French Short film 2025 Maitighar Prabal French Short film

Television

YearFilmRoleEpisodesNotes 2022 Crime Patrol Nepal S1 E01 & E02 Television series