Sundar Shrestha

Shiva Shankar Manandhar (1932–2004) was a legendary figure in Nepali music and cinema, celebrated for his versatility as a singer, composer, and actor. Born in Newroad, Kathmandu, to a musically inclined Newar family, his early exposure to classical Newari songs through his father, Man Bahadur, laid the foundation for his lifelong devotion to music. He joined Radio Nepal in 1951, where he collaborated with Nati Kaji to shape the golden era of Nepali music. Over his prolific career, he composed around 1,200 songs and sang nearly 300, spanning genres like love ballads, bhajans, patriotic anthems, and tragic melodies. His compositions for artists such as Narayan Gopal, Tara Devi, and Aruna Lama remain timeless. 🎬 In cinema, Shiva Shankar played the lead role of Lahure Dai in Aama (1964), Nepal’s first feature film. Though he didn’t pursue acting further, he composed music for several early Nepali films, contributing to the industry's formative sound. 🎶 Sadabahar (Evergreen) Songs: Aama ko sapana – a heartfelt tribute to motherhood Yo Nepali shir uchali – a patriotic anthem Timro lagi ma birsine – a romantic classic His music blended folk traditions with orchestral arrangements, pioneering modern Nepali pop while preserving cultural authenticity. Shiva Shankar received numerous national honors and served as Executive Director of Ratna Recording Corporation (1987–1991). Even post-retirement, he remained a guardian of Nepal’s musical soul.

Devi Gharti Magar is one of Nepal’s most celebrated folk singers, renowned for her powerful voice and deep connection to traditional Lok Dohori music. Born on January 5, 1986, in Ramuwa, Baglung, she has become a household name through decades of dedication to Nepali folk culture. Her musical journey began in the early 2000s, and she rose to prominence through duets with her husband and frequent collaborator, Raju Dhakal. Together, they’ve delivered countless hits, including “Oralima Bar”, “Dui Mutuko Bandhan”, and “Takine Aaina”. Her discography also features beloved songs like “Banki Chari” with Arjun Sapkota, “Lauri Harayo” with Pashupati Sharma, and “Rudai Fulyo Makhmali” with Badri Pangeni. Devi has received numerous accolades, including the Music Khabar Music Award, Teej Music Award, and Kalika Music Award, recognizing her as one of the best female folk singers in Nepal. She was also elected as a central member of the Lok Dohori Pratisthan in 2019, affirming her leadership in the folk music community. Her recent releases like “Saili Salala” and “Kholi Salala Jhaliko Jhalala” continue to resonate with audiences, blending heartfelt lyrics with traditional melodies.  

Purushottam Neupane is a celebrated Nepalese folk singer known for his contributions to the Lok Dohori genre. His music reflects the rich cultural heritage of Nepal, blending traditional melodies with heartfelt lyrics. Songs like "Hall Suneko" and "Jhil Jhil Sitara" showcase his talent and passion for folk music.  

ika Sanu is a popular Nepali singer known for her captivating performances in Dohori songs. Dohori is a traditional form of musical debate where two singers, usually a man and a woman, sing in a call-and-response style, often engaging in playful banter. Tika Sanu has participated in numerous live Dohori performances and has collaborated with various artists. Some of her notable performances include duets with Nabin Dhungel, Raju Pariyar, Asmita Dallakoti, and Prasanna Pathak. Her performances are well-received and have garnered a significant following on platforms like YouTube.