Hari Bansha Acharya Biography – The Iconic Figure of Nepali Entertainment
Full Name: Hari Bansha Acharya
Native Name: हरिवंश आचार्य
Date of Birth: November 13, 1957
Place of Birth: Gairidhara, Kathmandu, Nepal
Nationality: Nepalese
Profession: Actor, Comedian, Singer, Writer, Director
Years Active: 1974–present
Height: Approximately 5 ft 8 in (173 cm)
Languages: Nepali, Nepal Bhasa
Spouse: Meera Acharya (1983–2011), Ramila Pathak (2012–present)
Children: Trilok Acharya, Mohit Acharya
Facebook: Hari Bansha Acharya
Early Life and Education
Hari Bansha Acharya was born on November 13, 1957, in Gairidhara, Kathmandu, to parents Homanjaya Acharya and Ganesh Kumari Acharya. He faced early hardships, losing his father at the age of five and his mother shortly thereafter. Raised by his sister, Acharya was initially enrolled in a Sanskrit school to become a Pandit, as per his father’s wishes. However, his passion for the arts led him to pursue a different path.
Career
Acharya’s career began in 1974 on Radio Nepal, where he performed with artists like Hari Prasad Rimal and Jitendra Mahat Avilashi. In 1975, he joined Rastriya Naach Ghar and participated in the Gaijatra Mahotsav in 1977. It was during this festival that he met Madan Krishna Shrestha, leading to the formation of the legendary comedy duo “MaHa Jodi.”
Together, they created iconic comedy series such as “Lal Purja,” “Pandra Gatay,” “Bhakunde Bhoot,” and “Hari Bahadur and Madan Bahadur.” Acharya’s acting prowess is evident in films like “Balidaan” (1997), where he portrayed Arjun, a role that remains one of his most acclaimed performances. Other notable films include “Silu,” “Rajamati,” “Je Bho Ramrai Bho,” “Shatru Gate,” “Dal Bhat Tarkari,” and “Mahapurush.”
Personal Life
In 1983, Acharya married Meera Acharya, with whom he had two sons, Trilok and Mohit. Tragically, Meera passed away in 2011 due to heart disease. In her memory, Acharya established “The Meera Centre” in 2015, focusing on health and educational services for children under five. He remarried in 2012 to Ramila Pathak.
Philanthropy and Social Activism
Beyond entertainment, Acharya is deeply involved in social causes. He co-founded Maha Sanchar, a platform for social awareness through theater. During Nepal’s 2015 earthquake, he actively participated in relief efforts. He has held positions such as Ambassador for the UN World Food Program Nepal, Chairman of the Kathmandu Animal Treatment Centre, and Executive Director of MaHa Sanchar.
Literary Contributions
Acharya is also an accomplished writer. His autobiography, “Cheena Harayeko Manchhe” (“A Man Who Lost His Horoscope”), offers an intimate look into his life and has become one of Nepal’s best-selling books.
Net Worth
As of 2023, Hari Bansha Acharya’s net worth is estimated to be between NPR 6 to 10 crores (approximately USD 500,000 to 1 million). His income sources include acting, writing, endorsements, and social initiatives.
Awards and Recognitions
-
NEFTA Awards: Recognized for his contributions to Nepali cinema.
-
OFA Awards: Honored for outstanding performances.
-
Jagadamba Shree Puraskar: One of Nepal’s highest literary honors.
-
Honored in “Hasya Byangya Hijo Aaja Bholi” (2070 BS): Acknowledged for his comedic excellence.
Filmography Highlights
-
Balidaan (1997): Portrayed Arjun in this historical drama.
-
Silu (1987): Featured in Nepal’s first film in the Newar language.
-
Rajamati (1995): Acted in this Nepal Bhasa film.
-
Je Bho Ramrai Bho (2003): Contributed as an actor and director.
-
Shatru Gate (2018): Starred in this comedy-drama.
-
Dal Bhat Tarkari (2019): Played a leading role.
-
Mahapurush (2022): Featured in this comedy-drama.
-
Mahajatra (2024): Acted in this sequel to “Jatrai Jatra.”
Social Media Presence
-
Facebook: Hari Bansha Acharya – Over 1 million followers.
Note: All information is accurate as of May 2025. For the latest updates, refer to official Nepali film industry sources.