Nawin K. Khadka

Kulendra Bishwakarma is a celebrated Nepali folk and dohori singer from Parbat, known for his powerful vocal style and prolific contribution to modern lok‑geet. Born in 1985, he began his musical career in 2061 BS with Ke Chha Halchal, followed by the breakthrough song “Pashchim Purbako.” He has recorded over 2,000 songs, including major hits like “Salko Patko Tapari,” “Rumal Halai Halai,” “Dadai Phurke Sallo,” “Jimbal Ko Aganima,” “Ma Ni Ustai,” and “Phool Hau Timi.” Bishwakarma has earned top honors such as the Prabal Janasewashree and multiple National Music Awards, and has served as a judge on Nepal Lok Star and Dohori Icon.

Kumar Basnet (born 7 July 1938) is one of Nepal’s most celebrated folk icons, renowned for his energetic performance style, satirical humor, and pioneering contribution to modern lok geet. Widely known as “Lok Samrat”, he popularized comedic and socially reflective folk music through classics like “Lai Bari Lai,” “Ama Bhanda,” “Herda Ramo,” and “Goru Bhanjyang.” Active since the late 1950s, Basnet’s charismatic stage presence earned him comparisons to Elvis Presley within Nepal’s folk scene. His achievements include the Tri‑Shakti Patta, Gorkha Dakshin Bahu, Birendra–Aishwarya Sewa Padak, and the Ratna Record Puraskar, honoring his lifelong impact on Nepali cultural heritage.

Ram Thapa (1958–2008) was a pioneering Nepali folk singer, music director, and Radio Nepal presenter known for his humorous and socially conscious songs. Born in Kamalpokhari, Kathmandu, he began his musical career in 1974 and became a 7th Grade Music Director at Radio Nepal. He sang over 150 folk songs and directed music for more than 200, with hits like Thok Na Madal Thok, Timi Yesai Lajayau, and Ritu Haruma Timi, which was ranked 7th by BBC in 2003. He was the first to publish Nepali music books with lyrics and chords, contributing to music education. Ram Thapa also served as a judge on Nepali Tara I & II, mentoring young talent. He passed away in 2008 due to liver disease.

Badri Pangeni is a renowned Nepalese folk and dohori singer, celebrated for his contributions to Nepali music. Born in Nawalparasi, Nepal, he later moved to Palpa for his schooling. After completing his School Leaving Certificate, he relocated to Kathmandu in 1998 and worked at Pukar Dohori Sanjh for six years. His first album, "Tansen Kasauli," marked the beginning of his musical journey. Over the years, he has sung more than five dozen songs, including hits like "PN Campus," "Beauty Number One," and "Sasurlima," a duet with Sindhu Malla. Badri Pangeni's music often reflects traditional Nepali culture, making him a prominent figure in the genre. He also served as the president of the Nepal Folk Duet Academy, showcasing his dedication to promoting folk music.