Ganga Thapa

Subha Bahadur Sunam was a legendary Nepali music composer, saxophonist, and retired Brigadier General of the Nepal Army, celebrated for shaping modern Nepali music. Active for over five decades, he began composing at age 20 and became known for blending classical and contemporary styles. He co-composed the iconic song Parkhi Basey Aula Bhani with Sambhujeet Baskota under the name ShubhaSambhujeet. As a saxophone virtuoso, he was also the music mentor to Prince Dipendra. His contributions enriched Radio Nepal’s golden era and inspired generations of musicians. Sunam passed away in 2022 at age 74, leaving behind a profound musical legacy.

Rabin Lal Shrestha is a Nepali tabla virtuoso and music educator known for his contributions to classical and devotional music in Nepal. Born in Kathmandu, he has been a leading figure in preserving and teaching the tabla tradition for several decades, both as a performer and as a mentor to young musicians. Key facts Birthplace: Kathmandu, Nepal Primary Instrument: Tabla Teaching Position: Lalit Kala Campus, Bhotahiti (since 1989) Notable Albums: Tabla Solo, Grand Rehearsal Collaborations: Suresh Raj Bajracharya (sarod), Prabhu Raj Dhakal (vocals) Musical training and influences Shrestha began studying tabla at the age of ten, inspired by bhajans sung by his father. His early training was under Sadhuram Manandhar, followed by advanced tutelage from Ganesh Raj Wonta, Nara Raj Dhakal, Homnath Upadhyaya, and Sambhu Prasad Misra. This diverse lineage grounded him in the North Indian classical tradition while connecting it to Nepal’s own devotional music culture. Teaching and mentorship Since joining Lalit Kala Campus in 1989 after three years at Holy Garden School, Shrestha has educated generations of students through structured intermediate and diploma programs. His classes maintain a rigorous schedule, emphasizing rhythm discipline and improvisational skill. He is regarded as a key figure in institutionalizing tabla education in Nepal. Performances and recordings Beyond teaching, Shrestha regularly performs at Kathmandu’s Hotel Vajra in a long-running program titled Dafa. He has toured internationally—including performances in Europe with sitarists Tarabir and Bijaya Vaidya—and released two albums: Tabla Solo, accompanied by his instructional book Dafa, and Grand Rehearsal. His work bridges traditional and contemporary interpretations of tabla music. Legacy Rabin Lal Shrestha continues to inspire Nepal’s younger generation of classical musicians. His dual role as performer and educator has made him a cornerstone of the country’s evolving Hindustani percussion scene, ensuring the tabla’s rhythmic heritage remains vibrant in modern Nepal.

Amrita Uprety is a gifted Nepali flautist and classical musician, known for her soulful performances and dedication to the bansuri (Indian bamboo flute). Originally from Nepal, she has been a residential disciple at Vrindaban Gurukul, the prestigious music school founded by Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia, for over 15 years. Her training under the legendary maestro has shaped her into one of the most promising female flautists in the Indian classical tradition. Amrita has performed at major cultural events such as the RFPA Holi Festival 2022, and has received accolades including the Girnar Festival Award and the Female Flautist Award from the Sundari Wadan Festival. Her music blends technical precision with emotional depth, captivating audiences across India and Nepal. She continues to represent Nepali talent on international stages, inspiring young musicians—especially women—to pursue classical music with passion and discipline.

Kiran Baral is a talented flutist known for his soulful renditions on the flute. He has captivated audiences with his melodious performances. Kiran, born in Samudratar, Nuwakot, was interested in music from an early age. Now he is traveling in that dream. Kiran is adept at playing the flute in all genres of music. Kiran is currently busy with reality shows, song recording, live music. He has been to different countries and many cities of Nepal for musical programs.