Dayahang Rai
Born: 1980-04-13 in Khawa, Bhojpur District, Nepal
Known For: Acting
Biography
Dayahang Rai is a cornerstone of modern Nepali cinema, often credited with shifting the industry away from stereotypical hero tropes toward nuanced, character-driven storytelling. A proud representative of the indigenous Rai community, he brought his extensive background in theatre specifically from the renowned Gurukul: School of Theatre to the silver screen, debuting in the film Anagarik in 2006. However, it was his breakout role Gopal in the 2012 blockbuster Loot that transformed him into a national phenomenon. This role, along with his performance in the Kabaddi franchise, cemented his reputation for portraying the "common man" with a blend of dry humor and deep emotional resonance. Throughout his prolific career, Dayahang has demonstrated remarkable range, moving seamlessly between mainstream hits and artistic, independent projects. His collaboration with director Nischal Basnet and his work in films like White Sun (Seto Surya) with Deepak Rauniyar— which gained international acclaim at the Venice Film Festival—showcase his commitment to elevating Nepali cinema on the global stage. Beyond his acting prowess, he is a dedicated mentor to young artists and continues to be involved in the theatre scene through Mandala Theatre, which he co-founded. In his personal life, he is married to Benuka Rai, and together they have a son, Samduhang Rai. His journey from a small village in Bhojpur to becoming a multiple National Award winner remains an inspiring blueprint for aspiring actors across the Himalayas.
Filmography
2026
- Mirmire as Sonam
2025
- Pooja, Sir as Police captain Madan Rai
- Jaari 2: Song of Chyabrung as Namsang
- Bhuthan – The World’s Happiest Man
- Pitambar
- Anjila as Chandre shahu
- Dukhi Aatma as Chewang
- Mitjyu
- Mahabhoj
- Karsang as Dawa
- Baristha Balaram
2024
- A Road to a Village as Maila
- Mansara
- Degree Maila M.A 3rd Class
- Rangeli as Bijay
- Dayarani
- Gharjwai
- Hattichhap as Ammare
2023
- Jaari as Namsang
- Dimag Kharab as Bhola
- Bihe Pass
- Nango Gaun
- Fulbari
2022
- Kabaddi 4: The Final Match as Kaji
- दुई नम्बरी (Dui Nambari) as Chiring
- The Secrets of Radha
- Ke Ghar Ke Dera
- Four Nights as Ram
2020
- Kabaddi Kabaddi Kabaddi as Kaji
- Senti Virus
2019
- Saili as Birman
- Appa
- Jatrai Jatra as Dawa
- Bhaire as Bhaire
2018
- Mr. Jholay as Jholay
- Kanchhi as Hira
2017
- Loot 2 as Gofley
- Ghampani as Furba Tamang
- Lappan Chhappan as Inspector Tamang
- Lalteen as Lalle
2016
- White Sun as Agni / Chandra / Bhim
- How Funny as Tej Bahadur Rai
- Bir Bikram as Bir
- Fanko as Buddhe
- Purano Dunga as Betashe
2015
- Kabaddi Kabaddi as Kaji
- Woda Number 6 as Daya
- Taandro as Ganga Bahadur Lama
- Sambodhan as Police Officer Ram
2014
- Kabaddi as Kazi
- Talakjung vs Tulke as Syagi / Samten Lama
- Jholay as Harkam
2010
- Dasdhunga as Driver
2009
- Mero Euta Saathi Chha as Funny college student