Dinesh Adhikari

Manoj Khadka is a passionate Nepali lyricist whose words bridge music, emotion, and meaning across generations. While his professional journey spans over two decades, working with renowned agencies such as SAARC, the World Bank, USAID, DFID, American Red Cross, and several other international, inter-governmental, and nonprofit organizations across Nepal, the USA, Africa, and many countries in Asia, songwriting becomes his creative passion — a space where he channels personal expression, cultural reflection, and social insight. His debut song, “Timi Je Bana Udaharan Bana”, performed by Pramod Kharel and Trishala Gurung, is a motivational piece especially cherished by children and educators. Among his most celebrated works is the historic song “Ghazal Unkai Geet Unkai”, which became the first-ever recorded song by three generations of the legendary Ghulam Ali Khan family — a rare and historic milestone in South Asian music history. His lyrical works have been brought to life by Nepal’s most respected voices, including “Gaughar Le Sodhyo Pardeshi Lai” by Ram Krishna Dhakal, “Tejasvi Apsara” by Menuka Poudel, “New York Sahar Ghumna” by Rajesh Payal Rai, and the powerful duet “Sensation” by Ram Krishna Dhakal and Pratap Das. Known for his ability to capture the nuances of romance, social dynamics, and cultural identity, Manoj’s songs resonate deeply with diverse audiences. His commitment to lyrical storytelling — grounded in emotion and cultural context — has positioned him as one of Nepal’s most thoughtful and boundary-crossing contemporary lyricists.

Kali Prasad Rijal is a celebrated Nepali lyricist and poet. His works are deeply admired for their poetic essence and emotional depth. Some of his classic songs, such as Kehi Mitho Baat Gara, Aankha Chopi Narou Bhani, and Jhareko Paat Jhai, were performed and composed by the legendary Narayan Gopal. Recently, Rijal collaborated with musician Aavaas for the Paleti music series, where Aavaas presented compositions and vocals for Rijal's new lyrics. Additionally, Rijal launched his new book, Kehi Mitho Baat Gara, which features 20 poems and 68 songs, along with staff notations for 10 of his songs to assist musicians. Rijal's contributions to Nepali music and literature have earned him numerous accolades, including awards from the Nepal Academy. His work continues to inspire and resonate with audiences across generations.

Durga Lal Shrestha is a celebrated Nepali lyricist and poet known for his powerful, socially conscious writing and his deep contribution to modern Nepali literature and music. Active since the 1960s, he has written some of Nepal’s most memorable and emotionally resonant lyrics, blending poetic sensitivity with themes of identity, struggle, love, and social justice. His works—often rooted in the lived experiences of ordinary people—have been performed by leading singers across generations, making him one of the most influential literary voices in Nepali songwriting. Shrestha’s poetry is recognized for its clarity, cultural depth, and humanistic spirit, securing his place as a respected figure in Nepal’s literary and musical heritage.

Dayaram Pandey is a Nepali lyricist known for his active contribution to modern Nepali music, film songs, and cultural programs, recognized for his clean lyrical style and growing leadership presence in Nepali creative organizations. He has written songs for films, independent music videos, and thematic projects, including contributions to works such as “Manle Manko Sath Payo” (from Dui Pal) and participation in national thematic songs like the WYF Nepal 2025 theme song.His public presence extends beyond songwriting: he has been elected to leadership roles such as Coordinator of the INAS Asia Region, reflecting his influence in diaspora arts networks and Nepali cultural associations. He is also known for hosting and producing literary‑musical programs such as “Ghazalko Mahfil – A Dayaram Pandey Show,” which blends poetry, music, and cultural storytelling.