Manisha Koirala Age, Movies, Husband, Cancer, Biography

Manisha Koirala

Manisha Koirala Age, Movies, Husband, Cancer, Biography

Quick Facts

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Manisha Koirala Biography

Manisha Koirala is a renowned Indian and Nepali actress who rose to fame in the 1990s for her striking beauty, expressive performances, and versatility across Indian cinema. Beyond her on-screen success, her inspiring journey—marked by early fame, personal struggles, and a powerful comeback—has made her a symbol of strength and grace.

📅 Date of Birth and Basic Profile

• Full Name: Manisha Koirala
• Date of Birth: August 16, 1970
• Place of Birth: Kathmandu, Nepal
• Zodiac Sign: Leo
• Nationality: Nepalese

Manisha Koirala was born into an influential political family in Nepal. Her lineage traces back to the powerful Koirala political dynasty, and her grandfather, Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala, served as the first democratically elected Prime Minister of Nepal.

📏 Physical Stats

Manisha Koirala has always stood out for her classical features and poised demeanor. Even during the peak of the glamour-driven 1990s Bollywood, her natural elegance and expressive acting made her a favorite among directors and audiences alike.

• Height: 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm)
• Weight: Approximately 60 kg (132 lbs)
• Eye Color: Brown
• Hair Color: Black (often styled in various shades)
• Figure/Body Measurements: Approximately 34-28-36 inches

Though not overly tall by film industry standards, her regal presence, balanced features, and emotive face allowed her to play a wide range of characters, from vulnerable lovers to empowered women.

👶 Early Life and Background

Manisha grew up in a well-respected and politically active family. Her father, Prakash Koirala, held prominent roles in Nepalese politics, and her family emphasized the importance of public service, discipline, and education. Despite her prestigious lineage, Manisha was always drawn toward the creative arts.

She initially had dreams of becoming a doctor. However, after trying her luck in modeling and doing a few projects, she quickly realized that she was passionate about the performing arts.

Her first stint in front of the camera was in the Nepali film “Pheri Bhetaula” (1989). This exposure to acting sparked a serious interest in cinema, prompting her to move to India and eventually enter Bollywood.

🎓 Education

Manisha completed her early schooling in Varanasi, India, and later studied at Delhi’s Army Public School, Dhaula Kuan. Her formal education was accompanied by a growing interest in the arts, particularly dance and acting.

She later attended the New York Film Academy (NYFA) in the United States to refine her acting skills, especially after her comeback. Her education at NYFA was instrumental in shaping her renewed perspective on cinema and performance in her later roles.

🌈 Conclusion

Manisha Koirala’s journey from the picturesque hills of Kathmandu to the glitz of Bollywood is a tale of ambition, resilience, and evolution. Her striking looks, supported by her strong educational and cultural foundation, helped her become one of the most respected actresses in Indian cinema. Today, she continues to be an icon not just of beauty and talent, but also of survival, intellect, and grace.

Manisha Koirala is one of the most prominent and celebrated actresses in Indian and Nepali cinema. Known for her striking performances in films like Bombay, Khamoshi, and Dil Se, she is admired not only for her cinematic legacy but also for her grace, wisdom, and resilience through life’s challenges.

📅 Age and Birth Details

• Date of Birth: August 16, 1970
• Age (as of 2025): 54 years

Born on August 16, 1970, Manisha Koirala has had a career spanning over three decades in the Indian film industry. Despite taking breaks and facing personal health battles, her comeback performances and dignified presence continue to inspire people across generations.

🏡 Birthplace and Hometown

• Birthplace: Kathmandu, Nepal
• Hometown: Biratnagar, Nepal

Manisha was born in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, but she spent much of her childhood in Biratnagar, which she considers her hometown. Biratnagar is known as one of the major industrial cities of Nepal and is also home to the influential Koirala political family, of which she is a part.

🕉️ Caste and Religion

• Caste: Koirala Brahmin (Nepali Brahmin community)
• Religion: Hinduism

Manisha Koirala belongs to the Koirala Brahmin community, a high-caste Hindu group in Nepal with strong roots in politics and public service. The Koirala family has produced several Prime Ministers and national leaders, including her grandfather Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala.

Being born into a Brahmin household, she was raised with Hindu traditions and values. Although spiritual and culturally grounded, she is known for her inclusive, progressive worldview and deep respect for all religions.

♌ Sun Sign (Zodiac)

• Zodiac Sign: Leo

Born under the sign of Leo, Manisha embodies many characteristics typical of her sun sign: courage, creativity, elegance, and a regal personality. Leos are known for their charisma and leadership qualities—traits that resonate strongly with Manisha’s commanding screen presence and off-screen influence.

🎨 Hobbies and Interests

Despite her fame and professional commitments, Manisha Koirala has always made time for her passions and hobbies, which reflect her multidimensional personality.

✨ 1. Writing and Reading

She is an avid reader and has a keen interest in spirituality, philosophy, and autobiographies. Her love for writing led her to publish her own memoir titled “Healed: How Cancer Gave Me a New Life.”

✨ 2. Traveling

Manisha enjoys traveling, especially to serene and spiritually uplifting destinations. Her Instagram often features photos from the Himalayas, Bhutan, and spiritual retreats around the world.

✨ 3. Yoga and Meditation

A dedicated practitioner of yoga and meditation, especially after her battle with cancer, she often credits these practices for her inner strength and healing.

✨ 4. Social Work and Advocacy

Her interest in women’s rights, cancer awareness, and mental health advocacy also extends beyond just hobbies, reflecting a deeper commitment to public welfare and humanitarian work.

Manisha Koirala, a celebrated name in Indian and Nepali cinema, is known for her brilliant performances and remarkable personal strength. While her film career and battle with cancer are widely covered, her family background and personal relationships also provide deep insight into the person behind the celebrity.

👩‍👧 Mother: Sushma Koirala

Manisha’s mother, Sushma Koirala, was a deeply caring and supportive figure in her life. She played an important role in shaping Manisha’s personality, providing her with strength during both her early film career and later during her health battles. While not involved in public life, Sushma was a strong emotional anchor for the family. Manisha often acknowledges her mother’s calm, nurturing nature and influence in interviews.

👨‍👧 Father: Prakash Koirala

Her father, Prakash Koirala, is a prominent political figure in Nepal. He served as a minister in the Nepalese government and is the son of B.P. Koirala, the first democratically elected Prime Minister of Nepal. Prakash Koirala has had a significant impact on Manisha’s values and worldview. Despite the family’s political legacy, Manisha chose to follow a creative path, supported by her father’s liberal and progressive outlook.

👧 Siblings: Siddharth Koirala

Manisha has one younger brother, Siddharth Koirala, who also briefly worked in Bollywood. He appeared in films like Anwar (2007) and Fun: Can Be Dangerous Sometimes (2005), though his acting career did not take off like his sister’s. Despite their different career paths, the siblings share a close bond. Siddharth was especially supportive during Manisha’s battle with cancer and her recovery period.

💍 Husband: Samrat Dahal (Ex-Husband)

In 2010, Manisha married Samrat Dahal, a Nepali businessman based in Kathmandu. Their wedding was a private yet high-profile affair that caught the attention of media in both Nepal and India. Unfortunately, their marriage lasted only two years. The couple divorced in 2012 due to personal differences.

Despite the separation, Manisha has always spoken respectfully about the experience, acknowledging that both of them were very different people who tried but could not sustain the relationship.

👶 Children

Manisha Koirala does not have any children. After her divorce and subsequent battle with ovarian cancer, she chose to focus on self-care, healing, and advocacy work. She often speaks about how life has taught her to live with acceptance and gratitude for what she has.

❤️ Boyfriends and Past Relationships

Over the years, Manisha has been linked to several personalities from the film industry and beyond. In the 1990s and early 2000s, there were reports of her dating Bollywood actors like Nana Patekar, Crispin Conroy (an Australian diplomat), and others. Some of these relationships were brief, and some were controversial, but Manisha has always kept a dignified silence or offered limited comments on her personal life.

🌟 Career Overview: From Debut to Reinvention

Manisha Koirala began her career in the film industry with the Nepali movie “Pheri Bhetaula” (1989), but it was her Bollywood debut in “Saudagar” (1991), directed by Subhash Ghai, that catapulted her to stardom. Her fresh face, natural acting, and classic beauty quickly made her a favorite among both audiences and filmmakers.

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, she carved a niche for herself in parallel cinema as well as mainstream Bollywood, often taking up challenging and offbeat roles. Known for choosing roles with substance, she has portrayed a range of characters—romantic leads, emotionally complex women, and socially impactful roles.

After being diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2012, Manisha took a break from acting. Post her successful recovery, she made a dignified comeback with new roles in films and OTT platforms, proving her mettle once again.

🎥 Most Popular Movies of Manisha Koirala

Here are some of her most acclaimed and popular films:

1. 1942: A Love Story (1994)

• Director: Vidhu Vinod Chopra
• Role: Rajeshwari Pathak
• A patriotic romantic drama set during India’s independence movement. Her performance and songs from the film remain timeless.

2. Bombay (1995)

• Director: Mani Ratnam
• Role: Shaila Banu
• A bold and sensitive film addressing Hindu-Muslim conflict. Manisha’s nuanced acting received critical acclaim across India.

3. Khamoshi: The Musical (1996)

• Director: Sanjay Leela Bhansali
• Role: Annie
• One of her finest performances as the daughter of deaf-mute parents. This emotional musical drama cemented her acting prowess.

4. Dil Se (1998)

• Director: Mani Ratnam
• Role: Meghna (a terrorist with a traumatic past)
• A poetic love story blended with terrorism and heartbreak. The film is globally admired, and Manisha’s role is unforgettable.

5. Mann (1999)

• Opposite Aamir Khan
• A romantic melodrama that was a hit for its music and emotional story.

6. Company (2002)

• Director: Ram Gopal Varma
• Role: Saroja
• A crime drama based on the Mumbai underworld. She played a bar dancer with depth and realism.

7. Ek Chhotisi Love Story (2002)

• A bold film that stirred controversy and showcased Manisha in a provocative, layered role.

8. Dear Maya (2017)

• Her comeback film after cancer recovery. Manisha plays a lonely woman rediscovering life through love letters. It was praised for her sensitive portrayal.

9. Sanju (2018)

• Role: Nargis Dutt (Sanjay Dutt’s mother)
• She impressed critics with her subtle and graceful performance as the legendary actress.

10. Lust Stories (2018)

• An anthology film on Netflix where she played a mature woman navigating emotional complexity and failed marriage.

🎶 Memorable Songs Featuring Manisha Koirala

Manisha was not only known for her acting but also for her presence in timeless songs that still resonate with music lovers.

• “Ek Ladki Ko Dekha” – 1942: A Love Story
  A classic romantic song picturized on Manisha that became an anthem of love.
• “Tu Hi Re” – Bombay
  A soulful melody that showcased her onscreen chemistry and expressive eyes.
• “Chup Tum Raho” – Is Raat Ki Subah Nahin
  A haunting number reflecting emotional intimacy.
• “Satrangi Re” – Dil Se
  A visual and emotional masterpiece; Manisha was the central figure in this poetic song about obsession and heartbreak.
• “Kehna Hi Kya” – Bombay
  A beautiful classical fusion track that remains one of the most loved songs in Indian cinema.

🏆 Awards and Recognitions

Manisha Koirala’s talent has been acknowledged with several prestigious awards:

🎖 Filmfare Awards:

• Best Actress (Critics) – Bombay (1996)
• Best Actress (Critics) – Khamoshi: The Musical (1997)
• Best Supporting Actress Nomination – Company (2003)
• Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (South) – Honoring her contribution to Tamil cinema

🌐 Other Recognitions:

• Nepal’s Order of Gorkha Dakshina Bahu – For her contributions to arts and cinema
• UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador – For her work in cancer awareness and women’s rights

Her performances, especially in Bombay, Khamoshi, and Dil Se, are considered benchmark roles in Indian cinema history.

💰 Salary and Earnings

During her peak in the mid-1990s to early 2000s, Manisha Koirala was among the highest-paid actresses in Bollywood. She reportedly charged between ₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore per film depending on the role and production.

Even after her return post-2015, her presence in films and web series has been valued for her seniority and experience, fetching significant remuneration.

In addition to films, she has earned through:

• Brand endorsements
• Guest appearances
• Public speaking events
• Book sales (her memoir, Healed)
• OTT platform projects (Netflix, Amazon Prime)

💼 Net Worth (As of 2025)

Manisha Koirala’s estimated net worth is approximately ₹65–70 crore INR (or around $8–10 million USD). This includes:

• Income from films and web series
• Real estate holdings in Mumbai and Nepal
• Investments and brand collaborations
• Royalties from books and media appearances

Despite taking a long break from the industry due to health challenges, Manisha has managed her finances wisely and lives a balanced, independent lifestyle.

🌈 Final Thoughts

Manisha Koirala is more than a movie star—she is a symbol of artistic brilliance, inner strength, and reinvention. From romantic roles to intense character portrayals, she’s given Indian cinema some of its most memorable performances. Her journey through fame, heartbreak, illness, and recovery only adds to the respect she commands.

Her career continues to evolve, as she takes on roles that reflect maturity and depth. Whether in cinema, books, or public speaking, Manisha continues to inspire people around the world to live authentically, bravely, and beautifully.

Here is a list of Manisha Koirala’s favourite things and people (based on various interviews and media sources):

✅ Favourite Things & Interests

• Favourite Food: Momos, Nepali cuisine, Sushi
• Favourite Drink: Green tea
• Favourite Color: White
• Favourite Books: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, Spiritual and self-help books
• Favourite Outfit: Saree, Casuals
• Favourite Perfume: Chanel No. 5
• Favourite Travel Destination: Paris, Nepal, Switzerland
• Favourite Sport: Cricket
• Favourite Hobby: Reading, Painting, Writing, Yoga, Meditation
• Favourite Exercise: Walking, Yoga

✅ Favourite Personalities & Celebrities

• Favourite Actor: Dilip Kumar, Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan
• Favourite Actress: Nargis Dutt, Waheeda Rehman, Madhubala
• Favourite Director: Mani Ratnam, Sanjay Leela Bhansali
• Favourite Music Director: A. R. Rahman
• Favourite Singer: Lata Mangeshkar
• Favourite Author: Rumi, Paulo Coelho
• Favourite Politician: B. P. Koirala (her grandfather)

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FAQs

🔹 Personal Life

1. Who is Manisha Koirala?
   Manisha Koirala is an acclaimed Indian actress and social activist known for her work in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam cinema.
2. When was Manisha Koirala born?
   She was born on August 16, 1970, in Kathmandu, Nepal.
3. What is Manisha Koirala’s nationality?
   She is Nepalese by nationality.
4. Who are Manisha Koirala’s parents?
   Her father is Prakash Koirala, a prominent Nepalese politician, and her mother is Sushma Koirala.
5. Is Manisha Koirala related to any famous political family?
   Yes, she belongs to the Koirala political dynasty of Nepal; her grandfather was Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala, Nepal’s first democratically elected Prime Minister.
6. Was Manisha Koirala ever married?
   Yes, she was married to Samrat Dahal, a Nepali businessman, from 2010 to 2012.
7. Does Manisha Koirala have children?
   No, she does not have any children.

🔹 Career in Films

8. When did Manisha make her film debut?
   She debuted in a Nepali film ‘Pheri Bhetaula’ (1989) and later in Bollywood with ‘Saudagar’ (1991).
9. What are some of Manisha Koirala’s most famous movies?
   Her top films include ‘1942: A Love Story’, ‘Bombay’, ‘Khamoshi’, ‘Dil Se’, ‘Mann’, and ‘Company’.
10. Has Manisha worked in South Indian films?
    Yes, she has worked in Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam films and received critical acclaim for her roles.
11. What awards has Manisha won?
    She has received several awards, including Filmfare Awards and Screen Awards, and was honored with the Nepalese Order of Gorkha Dakshina Bahu.
12. Is Manisha active in films currently?
    Yes, she made a comeback with films like ‘Dear Maya’, ‘Sanju’, ‘Lust Stories’, and is part of upcoming OTT projects and films.
13. Which OTT shows or series has Manisha been part of?
    She featured in Netflix’s anthology ‘Lust Stories’ (2018) and starred in ‘Shehar Lakhot’ (2023).

🔹 Health and Activism

14. Was Manisha diagnosed with cancer?
    Yes, in 2012, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
15. Is Manisha a cancer survivor?
    Yes, she is a cancer survivor and underwent successful treatment in the USA.
16. What role does Manisha play in cancer awareness?
    She is an active motivational speaker and cancer awareness advocate, often speaking about her journey and health.
17. Has Manisha written a book?
    Yes, she authored ‘Healed: How Cancer Gave Me a New Life’, an autobiography released in 2018.
18. Is Manisha Koirala involved in any social work?
    Yes, she is a UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador and supports causes related to women’s rights, health, and education.

🔹 Public Image and Trivia

19. What languages does Manisha speak?
    She speaks Nepali, Hindi, English, and has performed in multiple South Indian language films.
20. What is Manisha Koirala’s educational background?
    She studied at the New York Film Academy and also did schooling in India.
21. Is Manisha on social media?
    Yes, she is active on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, where she shares personal and motivational content.
22. How tall is Manisha Koirala?
    She is approximately 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall.
23. What is Manisha Koirala’s net worth?
    As of 2024 estimates, her net worth is around $8–10 million USD.
24. Has Manisha Koirala received any government honors?
    Yes, she has been honored in Nepal for her contributions to cinema and activism.
25. What are Manisha Koirala’s future plans?
    She aims to continue acting selectively while expanding her role in social advocacy, writing, and public speaking.

Manisha Koirala

Manisha Koirala

Manisha Koirala

Manisha Koirala

Manisha Koirala

Manisha Koirala

Manisha Koirala

Manisha Koirala

Manisha Koirala

Manisha Koirala

Manisha Koirala

Manisha Koirala

Manisha Koirala

Manisha Koirala

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