𝐀𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐡𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐬𝐡𝐨

Choyang Phuntsho is a rising star in the world of entertainment, consistently capturing the attention and admiration of audiences with her mesmerizing performances and undeniable charm. Her presence on screen is nothing short of magnetic, drawing viewers into the stories she helps bring to life. Beyond her talent, Phuntsho has become a cultural ambassador of sorts, using her roles to beautifully showcase the rich and diverse heritage of Bhutan. Her work not only entertains but also educates and inspires, making her a true trailblazer in the industry. Through her dedication and artistry, Choyang Phuntsho has set a new benchmark, raising the standard for what can be achieved in Bhutanese cinema.

Q. What sparked your journey into acting, and who was the driving force behind your decision to step into the spotlight?
A: I never planned to enter the film industry; as a new mother, my focus was on my 6-month-old child. But one evening, my ex-husband, a filmmaker, and his lead actor suggested I audition for a crucial role. Despite my initial reluctance, I decided to try it, and to my surprise, it became a turning point. Acting challenged and rewarded me, leading to an unexpected but fulfilling career. This unforeseen opportunity allowed me to explore my passion for acting and opened doors I never imagined. The journey has been an incredible adventure, and I’m grateful for that chance.

Q. As a single mother, what has been the most fulfilling yet challenging part of juggling your acting career and motherhood?
A:The most rewarding part of my acting career is the love and support from audiences. Being on screen brings me true happiness, and connecting with viewers makes the hard work worthwhile. However, balancing my acting career with raising my son as a single mother is challenging. Acting requires flexibility, often involving tight schedules. Managing this takes planning and support, but the joy from my work makes it worth it. Balancing these aspects of my life is a continuous learning experience, and I’m grateful for the support I receive.

Q. What makes Bhutanese cinema stand out as a unique cultural gem in the world of film?
A: The Bhutanese film industry is unique in many ways. It stands out for how we speak our language, present our traditional dress, and promote our culture. Our films often reflect Bhutanese heritage, showcasing our customs and traditions in a way that is both authentic and meaningful. This cultural representation not only distinguishes our cinema but also plays a crucial role in preserving and sharing our rich cultural identity with a broader audience.

Q. What are your thoughts on the evolving role of women in Bhutanese cinema, and how do you feel it’s shaping the industry?
A: To be honest, the Bhutanese film industry has historically offered limited opportunities for women in leading roles, with female characters often relegated to supporting parts that primarily assist male leads. This has created a disparity in women’s representation in significant roles. However, the landscape is changing. A notable example is the film Baygrap, where Tandin Bidha takes on a leading role and carries the entire film. This shift marks a step toward more diverse and prominent roles for women in Bhutanese cinema, showcasing their talent and capability. It’s a positive evolution, providing more opportunities for female actors to shine and enhancing the representation of women in the industry.

Q. Can you share a memorable interaction or piece of feedback from a fan that has stayed with you and made a significant impact?
A:As an actress, I’ve had many fans, but one recent interaction stands out. A fan, Azhem (elder sister), has been especially supportive and kind. She expressed her admiration for my work, sharing how much she loves my movies and performances. Recently, she surprised me with a diamond ring and heartfelt advice. This touching gesture was unlike anything I’ve experienced, even from men. It reminded me of the deep connection I can have with my audience. Azhem’s kindness and support have been a significant and uplifting part of my journey, reinforcing the value of genuine connections with fans. Her thoughtful gesture is a cherished highlight in my career.

Q. As an actress, how do you handle criticism and negative comments? What strategies do you use to stay positive and focused?
A: As an actress, I face inevitable criticism. While many advise ignoring negative comments, I prefer addressing them directly. Speaking my truth and defending my work helps clarify my stance and respond to misconceptions. Maintaining my integrity and staying true to my values, even when criticized, is crucial. Transparency and authenticity guide my career, and staying true to myself is more important than avoiding criticism.

Q. Recently, there has been some disagreement among filmmakers about building cinema theatres. What is your stance on this issue, and how do you think it will impact the industry?
A: I strongly support the need for more cinema halls in Bhutan. They play a crucial role in showcasing films and delivering important messages to audiences, enhancing the impact and reach of movies. Cinema halls also help promote and preserve our culture through film, offering a space to share stories, values, and traditions. While global cinema offers diverse perspectives, investing in local cinema infrastructure is vital. More cinema halls would support our film industry and provide audiences with greater access to Bhutanese cinema. They are essential for telling and celebrating our stories, and I advocate for their development in Bhutan.

Q. In your two and a half years in the industry, what are some of the achievements you’re most proud of?
A:In just two and a half years, I’ve acted in nearly seven movies and received the Best Actress award for Awo Gi Chim Na Awo. This recognition was a significant milestone. Gaybhi Dugngel stands out for its deep impact on audiences, which has reinforced my passion for acting. My journey has been exciting and challenging, and I’m grateful for the opportunities and support I’ve received. I look forward to continuing my work in Bhutanese cinema.

Message:
We can’t change the past, but we can learn from it. Our experiences, both successes and challenges, shape our present and future. Regardless of who joins us or not, we must keep pursuing our goals and focusing on what we can control. Embracing this mindset helps us stay motivated and resilient. By taking pride in our efforts and learning from our experiences, we create opportunities for growth. Our perseverance and dedication define our journey, not past circumstances.