Babita Gurung

Baikuntha Man Maskey is honored as the first cinematographer of Nepali cinema, a pioneering figure who helped shape the visual foundation of early Nepali films. He earned a Diploma in Cinematography from the Film and Television Institute in Pune, India, in the 1960s, and began his career as the chief cinematographer for “Manko Baadh.” Maskey went on to shoot numerous films, including “Parivartan” and “Hijo Aaja Bholi,” along with extensive work in documentaries and television. He passed away at the age of 83, leaving behind a lasting technical and artistic legacy.

Babina Kiratee (also known as Babina Rai) is a Nepali singer, performer, and visual artist known for her expressive voice and fusion of folk and contemporary music. Originally from eastern Nepal, she gained recognition with her debut album Morning in the Beginning, featuring songs like Chari Bhaye Mathi Mathi, Saila, and Tadha Thiye. She is the playback singer for Chhadke Salam (with Kali Prasad Baskota & Nischal Basnet) and BEHULI from MEGHAULI, where her vocals drive the narrative. Babina has also appeared in music videos like Meri Mayalai and Paicho Mage. Her work, featured on Music Nepal and OSR Digital, reflects deep cultural roots and a commitment to storytelling through sound and image.

Bhagawan Bhandari is a Nepali lok‑dohori singer, lyricist, and composer known for his strong vocal tone, emotional delivery, and consistent presence in modern folk music. Active since the early 2008s, he has written and performed notable songs such as “Jhyalaima Aina,” “Aafnai Parama,” “Saili,” “Galbandi Khasyo,” “Jau Babu Nabhannu Aama,” and “Sakchhyau Ra Man Dina.” His works span lok‑dohori, teej songs, panchebaja, and modern folk collaborations with leading artists including Laxmi Khadka, Shanti Bhandari, Sita Lamichhane BK, and Krishna KC. Bhandari is also active as a lyricist, arranger, and producer, shaping contemporary Nepali folk sound.

Aashant Sharma stands among the most influential figures in Nepal’s modern theatre movement — a multitalented actor, director, and storyteller whose work bridges stage and cinema with rare emotional clarity. Rising from a passion for acting and dance, he became a prominent face of Nepali theatre, earning the Mandala Yuwa Samman in 2011 for his artistic impact. His stage play Sathi, Sathi Aideu Na became a cultural touchpoint, praised for its intimate portrayal of friendship, mental health, and human resilience. Responding to audience demand and the limitations of touring theatre, Sharma transformed the play into the feature film Taraharu, which he wrote, directed, and led — bringing a deeply personal narrative to the big screen. His work consistently explores inner conflict, hope, and the quiet struggles of everyday Nepalis, making him a compelling voice in socially conscious storytelling. Today, Sharma remains a driving force in Nepal’s creative community, shaping new talent, expanding theatrical language, and championing stories rooted in truth and emotional honesty.