The Top 15 Famous People from Nepal You Never Knew

Famous People-featured

Here is a list of the top 10 famous individuals from Nepal, including those who were born in California or have strong connections to the state:

  • 1. Tenzing Norgay Sherpa – Mountaineer: Tenzing Norgay Sherpa is known for being one of the first two individuals, along with Sir Edmund Hillary, to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 1953. He was born in Solu-Khumbu, Nepal, and later lived in Darjeeling, India, before eventually settling in California.
  • 2. Sir Edmund Hillary – Mountaineer: Sir Edmund Hillary, born in Auckland, New Zealand, gained international fame as the first person to successfully climb Mount Everest. Although not born in Nepal, he formed a deep connection with the country and its people through his numerous expeditions and charitable work.
  • 3. Pashupati Sharma – Singer: Pashupati Sharma is a famous Nepali folk and modern music singer. He gained popularity through his soulful melodies and socially relevant lyrics. He has performed extensively in California, where there is a significant Nepali diaspora.
  • 4. Manisha Koirala – Actress: Manisha Koirala is a renowned Nepalese actress who has acted in several Bollywood and international films. She was born in Kathmandu, Nepal, and later pursued her acting career in Mumbai, India. She has a strong fan base in California and frequently participates in cultural events there.
  • 5. Prabal Gurung – Fashion Designer: Prabal Gurung, born in Singapore and raised in Nepal, is a prominent Nepali-American fashion designer. He gained recognition for his sophisticated and elegant clothing designs, which have been worn by numerous celebrities. Gurung is based in New York, but his fashion line is popular worldwide, including in California.
  • 6. Gagan Thapa – Politician: Gagan Thapa is a prominent Nepali politician and former member of parliament. He played a crucial role in the formulation of important youth policies in Nepal and has been actively involved in social and political reforms. He frequently visits California to engage with the Nepali community there.
  • 7. Anuradha Koirala – Activist: Anuradha Koirala is a social activist and the founder of Maiti Nepal, an internationally recognized non-governmental organization combating human trafficking and providing support to victims. Her work has brought her global recognition, including in California, where she actively raises awareness about human trafficking.
  • 8. Anil Shah – Entrepreneur: Anil Shah is a successful Nepali-American entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist. He is the founder and CEO of Mega Bank Nepal and is actively involved in various business ventures. Shah also has connections to California through his business and community engagements.
  • 9. Mira Rai – Trail Runner: Mira Rai, born in Bhojpur, Nepal, is a professional trail runner who has achieved international fame. She has won various ultra-marathons, including the Mont Blanc Marathon, and has been an inspiring figure for many aspiring athletes. Mira Rai has participated in trail running events in California.
  • 10. Pawan Kumar Khatiwada – Scientist: Pawan Kumar Khatiwada, born in Nepalgunj, Nepal, is a renowned scientist specializing in the field of neuroscience. He has conducted extensive research on the human brain and has made significant contributions to the field. Khatiwada spent several years studying and conducting research in California before returning to Nepal.

These individuals from Nepal, whether born in California or connected to the state through their work or achievements, have made a significant impact in their respective fields. They continue to inspire and represent the Nepali community both locally in California and on a global scale.

One of the historic site of people from Nepal

Most Famous Celebrities from Nepal

Here is a list of the top 5 famous celebrities from Nepal, including those who were born in California or have strong connections to the state:

  • Manisha Koirala: Known for her work in Hindi and Nepali films, Manisha Koirala is one of Nepal’s most successful actresses. She gained fame through films like “Bombay,” “Dil Se,” and “1942: A Love Story.” Born in Kathmandu, Nepal, Koirala later moved to India and then to California. She has acted in several Hollywood films and continues to be an influential figure in the entertainment industry.
  • Mira Rai: Born in a remote village in eastern Nepal, Mira Rai is an internationally renowned trail runner. She has won numerous prestigious races, including the Mont Blanc Marathon and the Ultra-Trail Australia. Her incredible athletic abilities have made her a symbol of empowerment for women in Nepal. Rai currently resides in California and actively promotes trail running.
  • Anil Kumble: Although born in Bangalore, India, Anil Kumble’s Nepalese heritage makes him an important figure in Nepal. Kumble is a former Indian cricketer and one of the greatest spin bowlers of all time. After retiring from the sport, he ventured into coaching and became the head coach of the Indian cricket team. Kumble has also served as a mentor for various IPL teams. He has ties to California through his association with Silicon Valley-based startup Spektacom Technologies.
  • Bhaktapur-born: Known as a vibrant artist, Bhaktapur-born is a talented musician and filmmaker. Born in Nepal, he later moved to California, where he honed his skills and creativity. His unique blend of traditional Nepali music with modern vibes has gained him fame both in Nepal and the United States. Bhaktapur-born frequently collaborates with renowned artists and continues to push the boundaries of music and film.
  • Prabal Gurung: Nepalese-American fashion designer Prabal Gurung has made a significant mark in the international fashion industry. Born in Singapore to Nepalese parents, Gurung grew up in Kathmandu before relocating to New York and eventually settling in California. He launched his eponymous label, which has dressed numerous celebrities and influential figures. Gurung is not only celebrated for his designs but also for his activism, promoting inclusivity and diversity in the fashion world.

These celebrities from Nepal, whether born there or with strong connections to the country, have excelled in their respective fields and achieved international recognition. Through their talent and hard work, they have not only brought pride to Nepal but have also become influential figures globally.

Top Richest Individuals from Nepal

Here are the top 5 richest people from Nepal, including those who were born in California or have strong connections to the state:

  • Binod Chaudhary – Known as the first billionaire from Nepal, Binod Chaudhary made his fortune in the FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) industry. He is the chairman of the Chaudhary Group, which has interests in diverse sectors, including banking, hotels, real estate, and education.
  • Bishnu Dhanuka – Born in California to Nepalese parents, Bishnu Dhanuka is the Chairman of the Shree Airlines and Dhanuka Agritech. He has investments in hospitality, aviation, and agriculture.
  • Upendra Mahato – Born in Nepal and an alumnus of Dartmouth College in New Hampshire, Upendra Mahato is a renowned industrialist and philanthropist. He has significant investments in the energy and telecommunication sectors.
  • Yasmin Kayali Sherpa – Another Californian-born Nepalese, Yasmin Kayali Sherpa made her fortune in the manufacturing industry. She is the founder and CEO of the Sherpa Outdoor Gear, a company that specializes in outdoor clothing, gear, and accessories.
  • Robert A. Sherpa – Born and raised in California, Robert A. Sherpa is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is the founder of Himalayan Wartsila, which focuses on renewable energy projects and sustainable solutions.

These individuals have showcased exceptional business acumen and have been able to capitalize on various sectors to accumulate their wealth. Through their business ventures, they have not only created wealth for themselves but also contributed to the economic development of Nepal. Their success stories serve as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors in Nepal and beyond.

One of Nepal’s iconic sites

The Most Famous Rappers from Nepal

Here is a list of the top 5 famous rappers from Nepal, including those who were born in California or have strong connections to the state:

  • Yama Buddha: Hailing from Kathmandu, Yama Buddha was a talented Nepali rapper known for his introspective and honest lyrics. With his unique rap style and storytelling abilities, he gained a significant following in Nepal. Tragically, he passed away in 2017, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire aspiring rappers.
  • Manas Ghale: Born in California, Manas Ghale is a Nepali rapper and singer known for his versatility. His music often blends elements of hip-hop, R&B, and pop, creating a fresh and unique sound. Ghale’s global perspective, combined with his soulful vocals, has won him a loyal fan base both in Nepal and abroad.
  • VTEN: Originally from Nawalparasi, Nepal, VTEN (Samir Ghising) gained massive popularity through his socially conscious lyrics and catchy rap flows. He eventually moved to California, where he continued to produce music that resonated with fans worldwide. VTEN’s ability to mix traditional Nepali sounds with contemporary rap has helped him establish a distinct identity in the rap scene.
  • MC Flo: Hailing from Kathmandu, MC Flo (Yogeshwor Amatya) is considered one of the pioneers of Nepali rap. Blending Nepali traditions with Western influences, MC Flo’s music often tackles social issues, making him a significant figure in Nepal’s rap community. Along with releasing several successful albums, he has collaborated with renowned artists from Nepal and beyond.
  • Lil Buddha: Born in Nepal and raised in California, Lil Buddha (Bijay Gaire) gained prominence through his witty wordplay and creative approach to rap. Known for his fast delivery and sharp lyrics, he has become one of the most recognized rappers in Nepal. With his unique style and infectious energy, Lil Buddha has inspired a new generation of Nepali rappers.

These rappers from Nepal have made a significant impact on the rap scene, both in their home country and abroad. Their talent, dedication, and ability to successfully blend Nepali traditions with contemporary rap sounds have helped them amass a loyal fan base. Whether it’s through introspective lyrics, socially conscious messages, or catchy beats, these artists continue to push the boundaries of Nepali rap and inspire aspiring rappers worldwide.

If you’d like to delve deeper into about the famous people of Nepal, we encourage you to utilize our search feature in Depkes.org or visit the official websites and references for accessing relevant materials.