Akanchha Karki: Using Theatre to Spark Dialogue on Nepal's Societal Issues

In Nepal's vibrant theatre scene, Akanchha Karki stands out not just as an actor but as a visionary using drama as a powerful tool for social dialogue and change. As the founder of Kausi Theatre, Karki views theatre as a means to question inequality and explore possibilities for societal transformation.

Her journey into the arts began early, but it was during her higher education in India, where she earned degrees in performing arts and counseling psychology, that her path solidified. The competitive theatre culture in India honed her skills, leading her to direct award-winning plays like "Face Hooked," which tackled social media addiction, and "Rat Race," a satire on the pursuit of success. She also immersed herself in India's street theatre traditions.

Returning to Nepal in 2015, Karki initially worked as a psychologist. However, her passion for theatre remained strong. A pivotal moment came when she participated in a workshop for women theatre artists, which inspired her to stage a Nepali adaptation of "The Vagina Monologues." This production, translated into Nepali with friends, was a significant undertaking in a society where discussions about women's bodies and sexuality are often taboo.

The play's staging, initially at Mandala Theatre and later expanding to other venues, met with unexpected success. It demonstrated Nepali society's readiness for open, rational conversations on sensitive subjects. This experience also highlighted for Karki the profound personal stories shared by Nepali women, which differed from the original American narrative, further fueling her commitment to using theatre for local relevance and impact.

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I wasn’t a competitive person by nature, but India’s theatre culture made me competitive and combative.