Dayahang Rai Biography: Career, Family, Net Worth & Complete Profile
Dayahang Rai is one of the most respected and versatile actors in the Nepali film industry. Known for his powerful dialogue delivery, natural acting style, and ability to portray complex characters, he has redefined modern Nepali cinema. From theatre stages to blockbuster films, Rai’s journey reflects dedication, cultural pride, and artistic excellence.
In this detailed Dayahang Rai biography, we explore Dayahang Rai’s early life, birthday, family background, wife and relationships, height, address, career journey, major movies, advertisements, earnings, salary per movie, net worth, and much more.
Early Life and Background
Dayahang Rai was born on April 13, 1980, in Khawa, Bhojpur district, Nepal. He belongs to the Rai ethnic community, one of Nepal’s indigenous groups. Growing up in a rural setting, he experienced a simple lifestyle rooted in culture, tradition, and community values.
His early life was not filled with luxury. Instead, it was shaped by hardship, discipline, and ambition. Like many children in rural Nepal, he walked long distances to attend school and grew up observing traditional practices and village life. These experiences later influenced his acting, as he often portrays grounded, rural characters with remarkable authenticity.
Education and Theatre Beginnings
Dayahang Rai moved to Kathmandu to pursue higher education and expand his opportunities. He studied journalism but gradually found his passion leaning toward theatre.
He joined Mandala Theatre Nepal, one of the most influential theatre institutions in the country. Theatre played a crucial role in shaping his acting skills. Unlike many actors who directly enter cinema, Rai’s foundation in stage performance helped him master voice control, dialogue delivery, and emotional depth.
His theatre background is one of the main reasons critics consider him one of Nepal’s finest actors.
Breakthrough in Nepali Cinema
Dayahang Rai’s major breakthrough came with the film Loot (2012). The movie became a cultural phenomenon and changed the landscape of Nepali cinema. His portrayal of “Gofle” was widely appreciated, and the film’s dialogues became iconic.
After Loot, there was no looking back.
He went on to star in several critically acclaimed and commercially successful films, including:
- Kabaddi
- Kabaddi Kabaddi
- Kabaddi Kabaddi Kabaddi
- Talakjung vs Tulke
- Jatra
- Jatrai Jatra
- Pashupati Prasad
- Bir Bikram
These films not only performed well at the box office but also elevated storytelling standards in Nepal.
Acting Style and Influence
Dayahang Rai is known for:
- Natural dialogue delivery
- Emotional intensity
- Strong rural character portrayal
- Cultural authenticity
- Script-driven film selection
Unlike many commercial actors, Rai carefully selects roles that contribute to meaningful storytelling. His characters often represent marginalized communities, rural youth, or complex personalities struggling with identity and ambition.
He has become a bridge between art cinema and commercial cinema in Nepal.
Birthday and Age
- Date of Birth: April 13, 1980
- Age (as of 2026): 45 years
- Zodiac Sign: Aries
Every year, fans across Nepal celebrate his birthday on social media platforms with tributes and appreciation posts.
Height and Physical Appearance
- Height: Approximately 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm)
- Weight: Around 70 kg (approximate)
- Eye Color: Black
- Hair Color: Black
Dayahang Rai does not rely on glamorous looks. His appeal lies in authenticity and screen presence rather than conventional hero styling.
Wife and Relationship Status
Dayahang Rai is married to Benuka Rai. She is also involved in theatre and creative arts.
The couple maintains a relatively private life compared to many celebrities. They are known for supporting each other’s artistic journeys. Together, they represent a strong creative partnership rooted in theatre and cultural storytelling.
There have been no verified reports of controversial relationships or high-profile affairs. Rai has maintained a clean public image throughout his career.
Family Life
Dayahang Rai prefers to keep details about his children and extended family private. However, it is known that he values family deeply and frequently credits his upbringing for shaping his personality and work ethic.
Despite fame, he remains grounded and connected to his roots in Bhojpur.
Address and Residence
For privacy and security reasons, Dayahang Rai’s exact residential address is not publicly disclosed.
However:
- Birthplace: Khawa, Bhojpur, Nepal
- Current Residence: Kathmandu, Nepal
Like many prominent actors, he resides in Kathmandu due to professional commitments in the Nepali film industry.
Earnings and Salary Per Movie
Dayahang Rai is considered one of the highest-paid actors in Nepal.
Estimated Salary Per Movie:
- NPR 20–35 Lakhs (approximate range, depending on budget and role)
For high-budget franchise films like the Kabaddi series, his earnings are believed to be on the higher end of this scale.
Other Income Sources:
- Brand endorsements
- Advertisements
- Stage performances
- Production involvement
- Theatre direction
Net Worth
While exact financial records are not publicly disclosed, industry estimates suggest:
Estimated Net Worth (2026): NPR 5–8 Crores (approximate)
His wealth comes primarily from:
- Film projects
- Brand endorsements
- Theatre involvement
- Production collaborations
Brand Endorsements and Advertisements
Due to his strong cultural image and credibility, Dayahang Rai has appeared in several Nepali brand advertisements.
He has endorsed:
- Consumer goods brands
- Telecommunications campaigns
- Banking and financial awareness programs
- Social campaigns promoting Nepali culture
Unlike mainstream glamour-based endorsements, Rai’s ads often align with social values and authenticity.
Awards and Achievements
Dayahang Rai has won multiple awards in Nepal for:
- Best Actor
- Critics’ Choice Awards
- National Film Awards
- Popular Choice Awards
His performances in Pashupati Prasad and Kabaddi series earned him widespread critical acclaim.
Contribution to Nepali Cinema
Dayahang Rai helped transform Nepali cinema from formula-driven films to content-oriented storytelling.
Key contributions:
- Promoted indigenous representation
- Encouraged rural narratives
- Elevated dialogue writing standards
- Inspired theatre artists to enter cinema
- Balanced commercial success with artistic integrity
His collaboration with directors and writers has significantly raised industry standards.
Social Media Presence
Although not overly flashy, Dayahang Rai maintains a presence on:
He shares updates about films, theatre, cultural events, and occasional personal moments.
His fan following continues to grow organically due to respect rather than controversy.
Controversies
Dayahang Rai has largely avoided major controversies. Unlike many celebrities who rely on media attention, he has maintained professionalism and dignity throughout his career.
His focus remains on cinema and theatre rather than gossip headlines.
Future Projects
Dayahang Rai continues to work on socially relevant films and mainstream commercial cinema.
Industry experts believe he will:
- Continue leading franchise films
- Expand into film production
- Possibly mentor emerging actors
- Strengthen theatre institutions in Nepal
His influence in the next decade is expected to shape Nepali cinema further.
Why Dayahang Rai Is Different
What sets him apart:
- Theatre foundation
- Script-first approach
- Cultural pride
- Emotional authenticity
- Balanced commercial appeal
He represents a new generation of actors who value storytelling over stardom.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Dayahang Rai’s birthday?
April 13, 1980.
2. Who is Dayahang Rai’s wife?
He is married to Benuka Rai.
3. How tall is Dayahang Rai?
Approximately 5 feet 7 inches.
4. What is his salary per movie?
Estimated NPR 20–35 Lakhs.
5. Where is he from?
Khawa, Bhojpur, Nepal.
Conclusion
Dayahang Rai’s journey from a rural village in Bhojpur to becoming one of Nepal’s most respected actors is truly inspiring. His dedication to theatre, passion for meaningful cinema, and ability to portray complex characters have made him a cultural icon.
Unlike many actors who chase glamour, Rai chooses depth. His work continues to influence both audiences and aspiring actors across Nepal.
As Nepali cinema evolves, Dayahang Rai remains at its core — authentic, powerful, and deeply rooted in culture.
