Kathmandu, April 2
If you have watched the film Laaj Sharanam, you may remember a character that left a lasting impact. Jajarkot’s 15-year-old Bikash KC portrayed the role of a malnourished child in the film, starring alongside actors Mahesh Tripathi and Renu Yogi, who played his parents.
In real life, Bikash himself was a malnourished child. His portrayal, along with the performances of Mahesh and Renu, became one of the film’s most powerful narratives, highlighting the struggles of impoverished communities in remote Nepal. Directed by Kumar Kattel, Laaj Sharanam sheds light on the stark contrast between political indifference and the harsh realities faced by the underprivileged. The film notably depicts a minister flying in via helicopter to inaugurate a view tower while ignoring the plight of the region’s impoverished residents.
On Tuesday, the young actor took his last breath at his home in Jajarkot. His passing has left the Laaj Sharanam team in shock, with Mahesh and Renu—who spent a month with Bikash in Jajarkot to prepare for their roles—deeply affected by the news.
Actress Renu Yogi was in Gorkha for the shooting of her new film Pahaad when she learned of Bikash’s passing. Overcome with grief, she is set to return to Kathmandu on Wednesday. Meanwhile, director Kumar Kattel, actors Arjun Ghimeri Pandey, Mahesh Tripathi, and Renu Yogi will travel to Jajarkot to pay their final respects and support Bikash’s family.
Lyricist Basanta Udas, who was associated with the film, has already reached Jajarkot. Producer Arjun Pandey stated that financial assistance has been provided for the funeral rituals.
Efforts were made to support Bikash’s medical treatment both during and after the film’s production. He was even brought to Kathmandu for better healthcare. The filmmakers had obtained permission from his family and the local government to feature him in the film.
Despite his deteriorating health, Bikash remained an ardent fan of Nepali television, frequently watching the comedy show Sakkigoni and recognising its popular characters like Jigri, Pandey, and Bale.
“Thousands of children are dying from malnutrition in Nepal. Through this film, Bikash helped bring attention to this crisis,” said producer Pandey, adding that Bikash’s younger brother is also suffering from malnutrition.
The Laaj Sharanam team has been sharing tributes on social media, emphasising the urgent need to address malnutrition in Nepal. “As artists, we remain committed to using our platform to fight malnutrition in Nepal,” Pandey wrote.
Produced by JPT Creation, Laaj Sharanam continues to screen in theaters, keeping its message alive.
