Nabina Ranabhat receiving the trophy from Neer Bikram Shah
Emerging actress Nabina Ranabhat from Nepalgunj, Banke, has won the coveted title of Acting Star Nepal, Nepal’s first ever acting based reality television show. The grand finale of the show aired on AP1 TV, marking a significant moment for Nepal’s growing reality TV entertainment industry.
Along with the prestigious title, Nabina received a cash prize of NPR 1.5 million, a world tour, a trophy, and a lead acting role in a feature film. The announcement was made during the live finale episode, where her emotional victory moment quickly went viral on social media.
Produced by Mahak Media Network and directed by Bishal Bhandari, Acting Star Nepal introduced a new format in the Nepali television scene, focusing entirely on acting skills rather than singing or dancing.
Nabina Ranabhat Winner, Bhanum Magar first runner-up and Iva Ghimire runner-up | Acting Star nepal 2025
The show’s judging panel featured some of Nepal’s most respected film personalities, including Neer Bikram Shah, Anup Baral, and Reecha Sharma, who also served as mentors for the contestants throughout the competition.
According to the organizers, over 1,000 appicant from Nepal and abroad submitted audition videos, out of which 222 contestants were selected for on camera rounds. After weeks of performance challenges and eliminations, Nabina Ranabhat emerged as the strongest performer.
In the grand finale, Bhanum Magar secured the position of first runner-up, while Iva Ghimire was announced as second runner-up.
Nabina Ranabhat with Judges panel featuring Neer Bikram Shah, Anup Baral, and Reecha Sharma
Judge Neer Bikram Shah, who personally handed the trophy to Nabina, praised her for natural screen presence and emotional depth rarely seen in new performers.
The prize package reflects the show’s mission to “create Nepal’s next generation of screen actors.” In addition to cash and trophies, the winner’s film contract ensures that Nabina will soon make her cinematic debut, officially launching her acting career.
Nabina dedicated her victory to her family and supporters, saying, “This win is for everyone from western Nepal who believed in my dream.” Her father, Bhim Bahadur Ranabhat, called the achievement “a proud moment for the entire region.”
While Nepal has long embraced singing and dancing reality shows such as Nepal Idol and The Voice of Nepal, Acting Star Nepal stands out for highlighting the craft of acting. Director Bishal Bhandari said, “We wanted to give aspiring actors a real platform to showcase their potential. If audiences support quality content, this show will set a new benchmark for acting reality programs in Nepal.”
Industry experts have hailed Acting Star Nepal as a positive step toward nurturing new faces for film and OTT platforms.
As part of her prize package, Nabina will embark on a world tour with the show’s team. Her upcoming film debut, to be produced under Mahak Media Network will officially introduce her to the Nepali film industry.
VIEW PHOTO GALLERY: Nabina Ranabhat, Winner of Acting Star Nepal 2025
Fans and critics alike are already anticipating whether Nabina will live up to the promise of being Nepal’s newest rising star.
With Acting Star Nepal’s successful first season, a new door has opened for aspiring actors nationwide. Nabina Ranabhat’s journey from a small town in Banke to national stardom reflects how dedication and opportunity can reshape the Nepali entertainment industry’s future.
