Dibya Subba

Phatteman Rajbhandari (1936 – 9 September 2013) was a legendary Nepali classical and modern singer, celebrated for his unmatched vocal purity, mastery of raag, and disciplined musical artistry. Born in Lalitpur, he began his professional musical journey in 1951 after joining Radio Nepal, where his deep, resonant voice quickly became a national standard of excellence. Known for timeless recordings such as Yesto Pani Hudo Raichha, he remained a central figure in shaping Nepal’s classical‑based modern music tradition. Honored with major national awards including Chinnalata Puraskar and Gorkha Dakshin Bahu, Phatteman’s legacy continues to inspire generations of Nepali vocalists and music learners.

Rekha Shah is a celebrated figure in the Nepali music scene, known for her soulful voice, lyrical depth, and dedication to using music as a medium for social transformation. Born in Dhading, she stood out early in life with a calm but determined personality. Her musical journey began at the age of 14 when she won Radio Nepal’s folk song competition with Simsime Panima, a song she had written herself. The track became an iconic classic in Nepali folk music and remains beloved to this day. Musical Training & Style Despite facing serious heart-related health challenges, Rekha pursued her artistic ambitions with resilience. She received classical training from Nepali music legends Late Ram Thapa and Gurudev Kamat, which helped shape her rich, versatile singing style. Her sound blends traditional folk elements with classical discipline and modern influences. Her latest album, The Line, features a fusion of Eastern, Western, and folk genres, arranged by prominent musicians like Phadendra Rai, Maha Raj Thapa, and Norvu Sherpa. The accompanying music videos were directed by notable industry professionals such as Bhusan Dahal, Alok Nemang, and Suraj Singh Thakuri.

Bartika Eam Rai, a talented Nepali-American singer-songwriter based in New York City, has made significant waves in the music industry. Let’s explore her artistic journey: Early Beginnings and Musical Training: Bartika grew up in Lalitpur, Nepal, where she began her musical journey informally from the age of six. By the time she was around 11 years old, she was already performing in front of small audiences. She recorded children’s songs and received training from notable mentors such as Shreeti Pradhan, Upendra Lal Singh, Roshan Sharma, John Shrestha, and Gurudev Kaamat. It was only after moving to the United States that she decided to pursue music professionally as a career. Debut Album: “Bimbaakash”: In 2016, Bartika burst onto the scene with her debut album titled “Bimbaakash.” The album featured six songs, and her first single, “Khai,” gained widespread popularity on YouTube. The song was described as a “breath of fresh air,” with thrilling aesthetics in its poetry and simplicity in delivery. Bartika’s talent earned her nominations at the Hits FM Music Awards, where she won Song of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Performance (Female) for “Khai.” Second Album: “Taral”: In March 2018, Bartika announced the release of her second album, “Taral,” once again produced by Diwas Gurung. The album was supported by tours across the United States and England. Its first single, “Umer,” was accompanied by a captivating music video. Abstract Themes and Artistic Expression: Bartika’s songs often delve into abstract themes of death and existence. Her unique perspective and lyrical prowess continue to resonate with audiences. Bartika Eam Rai’s musical journey reflects her passion, creativity, and dedication to her craft. 🎶

Pranil L. Timalsena is a Nepali singer, rapper, and songwriter best known as one half of the pioneering hip‑hop duo Girish–Pranil (GP), whose work in the 1990s laid the foundation of NepHop, Nepal’s earliest hip‑hop movement. He began his musical journey with Girish Khatiwada, releasing Ma Yesto Chhu with rapper DA69, a track widely recognized as the first major breakthrough of rap music in Nepal .As part of Girish–Pranil, he contributed to several influential early rap songs including Timi Jaha Pani Jaanchhau, Malai Bhot Deu, Hami Dherai Sana Chhu, Meaningless Rap, Diyeko Maya Samhali, Dream, Gaarho Bho, Zoom Zoom Boom Boom, Seto Ghoda, and Yesari . His collaborative hit Aankha Bhari with DA69 further strengthened his presence in the emerging hip‑hop scene .Pranil later expanded into melodic and modern Nepali music, working with major artists including Nabin K. Bhattarai, most notably featuring in the popular composition Yehi Ho Ta Maya from the album May 18 . His solo works include emotional and modern tracks such as Ajiyo Mutu Bhanchhu, Aashu Yo Jharcha, Eklo Yatra, Sabai Naacha, and Chan Maya Yo Timilai .Recognized as one of the earliest voices to bring rap, rhythm, and modern lyrical expression into Nepali mainstream music, Pranil remains an influential figure whose contributions helped shape the identity of Nepali hip‑hop and early fusion‑rap culture.