𝐀𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐢𝐝𝐡𝐚

Tandin Bidha stands as one of Bhutan’s leading actresses, celebrated for her versatility and captivating performances. Her illustrious career boasts appearances in approximately 40 films across diverse genres, earning her numerous national film awards. Beyond her cinematic prowess, Tandin Bidha extends her influence by co-hosting ‘The Voice of Bhutan,’ showcasing not just her charisma but also her adept communication skills.

Despite her immense success, Tandin Bidha remains grounded, embodying a down-to-earth personality that values simplicity. She cherishes moments with her son and finds joy in the quiet pleasures of life. An avid reader, her literary tastes encompass a wide range, from explorations in self-discovery to absorbing inspirational tales.

Q. What inspired you to pursue a career in acting?
A. There are numerous inspirations and incidents that have motivated me. Firstly, my mother. During her school days, she enjoyed theater because there were no movies, and she played the role of Azhi Nangsa. She became famous and loved the attention, the art, and theater, but she had to work, look after me and my siblings. She couldn’t pursue her dreams, so I think I really wanted to be an actor, and she is my core inspiration. Many people have inspired me to be an artist, like Kinley Pelden, Dorji Wangmo, Karma Choden, Lhaki Dolma, besides international artists.

Q. Did you face any challenges or obstacles while filming a particular project? How did you cope with them?
A. There are always some obstacles, even when you commute from home to the office, like sometimes not getting a taxi, or even if you have a car, it breaks down, or sometimes the weather is not good. So, it is not always a hot sunny day; not everything is perfect. Hardship is always there, and it is not a bed of roses; there are thorns. Every project was hard, but we had fun in the process. Yes, we are born with this; we have the energy and stamina to face all these things. For example, it can be an hour, and after that, somebody will call, and the stress comes out. It’s not easy; it’s just that you should know how to handle things in life.

Q. Bhutanese cinema is gaining international recognition. How do you think this was possible?
A. Our country is small, and people across the world are getting to know about Bhutanese films through movies that gained momentum, like the movie directed by Pawo Choeying. If you are lucky enough, it can happen in my time, then in my son’s time. I can see a very bright future for the film industry where you will rub shoulders with international filmmakers, walk on the red carpet, be proud of where we come from, and tell our rich stories about culture and tradition to the world.

Q. How does Bhutanese cinema promote culture and tradition?
A. It’s very important. We, as artists, are not just there to entertain and make people laugh, cry, or create drama. In between, we are here to advocate for our cultures, our values, our norms, like the clothes we wear, the food we eat, the language we use. This is our responsibility as artists.

Q. Is there any director or actor who influenced you or whom you admire?
A. All my directors are my gurus, and all are my favorites. It’s like choosing between your mother and father for your kid. Likewise, for me, I can’t choose who is my favorite; everybody is so good in their own way. Every director has a different story to tell in their style.

Q. How did you start your acting career, or how was your experience in your initial period?
A. I was immature when I first started. I was 18 years old, and I don’t remember much. I used to act, dance, and perform on stages but never in front of cameras. It was overwhelming, but subconsciously I was ready to be an actor. It was like going to school; you know school was not easy, but it was fun, and I learned something new. But now, after almost 40 films and 15 and a half years in the film industry, I feel like I am a better actor. I understand the characters and their roles better. I can now differentiate my personal life from my profession, and I will not mix my own character with the on-screen character.

Q. Are there any upcoming projects you are excited about? What can the audience expect?
A. I am doing a wonderful project with Karma Jerry, and it’s about a social issue that I am very concerned about, LGBTQ, and I am co-producing it with Karma Jerry. Next year, by this time, it should be released, and I hope everyone will support us.

Q. How do you see the future of Bhutanese cinema evolving?
A. There is a possibility, but I think we must not lose our hope. We have to keep the hope; it’s like light at the end of the tunnel. Even though it might be dark, you will see a flicker of light at the end of the tunnel, and that is hope for me. This is how I relate and set an example. If you have hope, then anything can happen. With the film industry, Covid happened, and now things are picking up again, not just with the film industry but with everything. So we must not lose hope, and with hope, we can do wonders for a better future in the film industry.

Message:

If you aspire to achieve something in life, patience is crucial. By maintaining hope and staying focused, the possibilities are endless. Having the determination to initiate change and a clear purpose are essential for personal growth. Remember, fame and improvement don’t happen overnight; they require time and effort.
I wish you the best of luck; may all your dreams come true, and may you enjoy good physical, mental, and overall well-being. Remember, good health leads to prosperity, so there’s no need to worry about financial matters.