Kiran Pradhan

Prabhu Raj Dhakal is a renowned Nepali classical vocalist, composer, and music educator, currently serving as a vocal teacher at the Music Department of Kathmandu University and Nepal Music School. Born on 29th Shrawan 2025 B.S., he is the son of the legendary Sangeet Pravin Pragya Pandit Nara Raj Dhakal and Jyoti Dhakal. Growing up in Dhobichaur, Chhetrapati, he was surrounded by music from an early age, with many prominent radio singers frequenting his home to learn from his father. Inspired by this rich musical environment, Dhakal developed a deep-rooted passion for classical music. Though initially advised by his father not to pursue music professionally, his dedication and progress eventually earned his father’s support. He began teaching classical vocals over two decades ago, first as a substitute for his father and then full-time as student numbers grew. Over the years, he has contributed significantly to the classical music scene in Nepal. His notable albums include ‘Moment’, a collaboration with fellow musicians, and ‘Sohani’, featuring his compositions performed by his students. He is also a founding member of the classical ensemble Dafa, alongside Suresh Bajracharya and Rabin Shrestha. The group not only performs but also organizes annual events to honor veteran artists who have contributed to Nepali music.

Suraj Pandit is a powerful voice from Jumla, Nepal, known for his evocative songwriting, soulful singing, and socially conscious music direction. Born on February 23, 1991, in Maliabid-4, Chandannath Municipality, he rose to prominence with the viral hit “Railko Bato”, a song that poignantly captures the struggles of life in Karnali and the stark contrast with urban privilege. His music often blends folk and contemporary styles, with lyrics that challenge inequality and celebrate resilience. Suraj writes, composes, and performs many of his songs, including “Singha Durbar”, “Maya Basyo Jumla Bazaarma”, and “Tamra Manma”. Despite early hardships and working as a forest guard, he pursued music relentlessly, earning accolades like the Bindhyabasini Music Jury Award, Rara National Music Award, and Radio Kantipur’s Best New Singer.

Karmaa Sherpa is a celebrated singer and performer from Darjeeling, currently based in Siliguri, India. She rose to fame through her standout performances on ZEE TV’s Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, earning her the title of a SAREGAMAPA (Fame) artist. She is the founder of KARMA MUSIC ACADEMY, where she mentors aspiring vocalists and nurtures young talent with a blend of classical discipline and contemporary flair. In 2025, Karmaa Sherpa was honored as a Grand Jury Member on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Lil' Champs Nepal Season 2, where she helped guide and uplift the next generation of Nepali musical stars. Her presence on the jury panel brought both warmth and expertise to the beloved kids’ singing reality show.

Tara Devi: The Nightingale of Nepal Tara Devi Shrestha was born on January 15, 1946, in the vibrant neighborhood of Indra Chowk in Kathmandu, Nepal. She started her professional singing career at the tender age of seven, and her soulful voice quickly captured hearts. Tara Devi went on to record over 4,000 songs during her remarkable 40-year singing career. Versatility and Influence: Tara Devi’s music spanned various genres, from prayer songs to Nepali folk tunes. She was a versatile artist, and her compositions are regarded as classic gems in Nepal. Almost every singer in Nepal has been influenced by Tara Devi’s artistry in one way or another. Iconic Songs: Some of her famous numbers include: “Ukali Orali Haruma” “Phool ko Thunga” “Nirdosh Mero Pachhyaurima” “Ae Kancha” “Himal ko Kaakhama” Awards and Recognition: Tara Devi received several prestigious awards, including: Member of the Order of Gorkha Dakshina Bahu, First Class Mahendra-Ratna Award Indra Rajya Laxmi Award Jagadamba Shree Puraskar Chinnalata Award (“Maina”) Later Life and Legacy: Tara Devi faced personal tragedies, losing her 25-year-old son to blood cancer and her husband in an airplane crash.Her health deteriorated, and she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, which halted her singing career. On January 23, 2006, at the age of 60, Tara Devi left this world, but her music continues to resonate with love and patriotism. Tara Devi’s soulful melodies remain timeless, and her legacy lives on.