Gopal Rasaily

Navras Shrestha is the founder, lead vocalist, guitarist, lyricist, and composer of The Lakhey, Nepal’s pioneering Newa (Newari) metal band based in Kathmandu. Known for blending traditional Newar musical elements with the power and edge of metal, Navras has carved out a space for a truly indigenous and modern sound that speaks both to cultural identity and musical evolution. His first Newa metal song, Dhampa Tacha, was recorded in 2005—a bold and groundbreaking transformation of a Newa rap piece into a heavy, guitar-driven anthem that laid the foundation for what would become the Newa Metal genre. Over the years, Navras has created and performed a variety of original songs and covers that showcase his wide-ranging musicality. Tracks like Jeevan, Miss Julie (a fully home-recorded, arranged, mixed, and mastered song), and Ae Kancha (a duet cover with a female vocalist) reflect both his technical abilities and his emotional range as a musician. His reimagining of Malshree Dhun—a revered Newari and Nepali traditional piece—is particularly notable for incorporating Spanish and Indian Rajasthani techniques and a touch of Hindustani classical flavor with heavy drumming, giving the folk tune a new life in a contemporary soundscape. Navras’s musical curiosity extends beyond local traditions—he has embraced songs in foreign languages, including a Georgian piece (Erti Nakhavit by Chveneburebi), while also composing original works like Swagta Mu Hai Nheeaye in Nepal’s Thakali language. In 2022, Navras completed his Master of Fine Arts in Music with a focus on Hindustani Classical music. During this time, he developed a deep interest in songs from various ethnic and regional backgrounds of Nepal. Rather than simply studying them academically, Navras has immersed himself in the melodies, rhythms, and stories found in songs of Nepal Bhasa (Newar), Charya (ritual Buddhist music), Tharu, and Limbu and other indigenous languages. He is currently preparing to record and preserve these culturally significant pieces with modern arrangements—ensuring their continuity and relevance for future generations. His academic contribution is also noteworthy. For his master’s thesis, Navras conducted in-depth research on Dapha music (Asan Bajan Guthi). His thesis has since become a valuable resource for members of the Guthi and other musicians who are interested in traditional music. The work not only documented the artform but also shed light on the present condition and challenges faced by the community in keeping their musical heritage alive. While music is his core identity, Navras Shrestha is also a skilled Full Stack Web Developer by profession and currently works at GTA Nepal. His ability to balance a demanding tech career with an expansive artistic practice speaks to his discipline and creativity. In addition, he is deeply passionate about photography and videography. From capturing evocative model portraits to creative visual storytelling, his visual work complements his music, allowing him to express his artistry across multiple forms. Whether through metal riffs rooted in Newa culture, folk songs from across Nepal’s diverse communities, world music explorations, or visual compositions, Navras Shrestha stands out as a multi-talented, cross-disciplinary artist. He continues to inspire others not just with what he creates, but with how he connects deeply to culture, community, and creativity.

Hailing from the picturesque hill station of Darjeeling, Nivangelo brings a breath of fresh air to the Nepali music scene. Now based in the vibrant city of Hyderabad, this singer and music producer isn't afraid to push boundaries. His musical style seamlessly blends genres, incorporating elements of Folk Rock, Pop, and even Hip-hop, resulting in a sound that's both unique and undeniable. Nivangelo's soulful vocals take center stage, whether delivering heartfelt ballads like "Timro Yaad" or weaving his magic on the more upbeat and evocative tracks like "Timi Bahek Afnu Vanne." With a string of Nepali songs already under his belt, Nivangelo is poised to make a significant impact.

Bhupendra Rayamajhi is a renowned Nepali musician, music director, arranger, and lyricist with over 30 years of experience in the music industry. His passion for music began in childhood and turned professional when he joined Radio Nepal as a guitarist in 1983, later becoming a music arranger in 1990. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Music from Prayag Samiti, Allahabad, India. In 1998, he was appointed Chief of the Music Department at Radio Nepal, where he played a vital role in nurturing and uplifting Nepali music. He retired from Radio Nepal in 2018 and continues to create heartfelt music that connects with audiences worldwide.

Ashish Aviral (Nepali: आशिष अविरल) is a Nepalese music director, music composer, and music arranger. Born on June 4, 1980, in the Baglung district of Nepal, he has made significant contributions to the Nepali music industry. Let’s explore more about this talented artist: Musical Career: Ashish Aviral has worked on numerous Nepali songs during his career. Some of his popular compositions include:“Saalko Pata” “Bhageri Chari” “Timile Dine Maya” “Barambar” “Timi Binako Jiwan” “Maya Luki Luki” “Karke Najar” “Jindagi Nai Bhandina” “Yo Kura Gopya” “Barsidai Chha Aasu” Awards and Recognitions: Ashish Aviral has received national awards such as the Bindabasini Music Award and the National Rapati Music Award. He arranged the song “Mirtyu Yesari Song” by national poet Madhav Prasad Ghimire after Ghimire’s passing . Notable Songs: “Jindagi Nai Bhandina” from the movie A Mero Hajur 3 (2019) “Parana” from the movie A Mero Hajur 3 (2019) “Timile Dine Maya” (sung by Narendra Pyasi) Ashish Aviral’s musical journey continues to resonate with audiences, and his talent has left an indelible mark on Nepali music. 🎵