'It Was Very Easy Working Under Shobhit Basnet's Direction' — Actor Suraj Paudel

Suraj Paudel, who has been studying and modeling in Australia, is making his debut in the Nepali film industry with the movie 'PR'. Set to be released nationwide this coming Friday, the film uses a narrative to present the psychological, financial, and social pressures faced by Nepali students studying abroad.

Paudel, who has not yet arrived in Nepal for the film's promotion, openly discussed his acting journey, the reason for joining the film, and the experience of shooting amidst his busy schedule abroad. Presented here is the detailed conversation with him—

How did you get involved in this film?

Shobhit Basnet Sir was conducting auditions for this film in Australia. His daughter, Salina Basnet, messaged me, informed me that auditions were taking place, and suggested I participate. I had always wanted to act, so I auditioned and was selected.

When did you get to know Salina?

We met in 2019 during the 'Glamour Nepal' modeling show. We became good friends from there. Later, she was the one who informed me about the audition.

Did you go to the audition just based on Salina's suggestion, or had you already spoken with Shobhit Basnet?

After finding out from Salina, I messaged Shobhit Sir asking about the audition location and time. He called me over. After a one-line audition, he asked, "So, what are your thoughts?" The issue of time management in Australia was on my mind, but he said, "You don't need to panic, read the script and then decide." His suggestion gave me a lot of confidence.

What did he say? Are you at liberty to share?

Yes, I can. He had said, "After you read the script, you will gain the confidence that you can do the film." That same night, he sent me the script. After reading it, I felt compelled to join the cast. 99 percent of the story felt like my own life—I found the challenges faced by youth in Australia during their initial days in the story.

What was the main reason you liked the script?

The script has a deep content that conveys a message to society. The reality of Nepali students studying in Australia is clearly visible in the story. Feeling that this topic needed to be addressed, I decided to join the film.

How easy was it to work on your debut film?

Nothing in life is entirely easy. But it became very easy working with an experienced director like Shobhit Basnet. He provided us with a comfortable environment based on the experience he has gained in the film industry. I don't think it would have been this easy with anyone else.

How effective was the workshop?

We went to the floor only after doing a workshop for about a month and a half. The workshop greatly helped in settling into the character, presenting the dialogues as understood, and boosting confidence.

How challenging was it to take out time for shooting amidst the busy schedule in Australia?

They say if there is a will, everything is possible. That's what happened for me too. At that time, studies, work, modeling, and cricket—everything was going on. Since Shobhit Sir arranged the shooting schedule by considering the time availability of all the artists, shooting became very convenient.

Had you taken any acting training before this?

Yes, I had done two or three workshops. I was also taking acting classes. Since I had already learned the basics, acting in the film became very easy.

Finally—do you want to continue acting, or do you plan to return to Australia?

Even if I am in Australia, it's not a problem for me to come to Nepal if work comes up. For 'PR', I came to Nepal, worked, and returned. Having said this, I want to say that viewers will get to see me in other films after 'PR' as well.