Manzayashree Bhatta

Durga Prasad Khatiwada is a renowned Nepali bansuri (flute) maestro, educator, and cultural ambassador, originally from Ilam. A graduate of Banaras Hindu University with a Master’s in Flute (2003), he has performed in over 20 countries, representing Nepal at prestigious events—including during state visits by leaders like Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi. Khatiwada is a music officer at Rastriya Nachghar and has taught classical music at institutions like Lalit Kala Campus and Sirjana College of Fine Arts. He pioneered flute education in Nepal’s higher education system by developing formal curricula. His international teaching includes sessions in Norway, Sweden, Germany, and France. Inspired early on by Gopal Yonjan, Khatiwada has dedicated his life to promoting classical music as the foundation of all musical forms. His performances and teachings emphasize peace, discipline, and cultural identity, making him a vital figure in Nepal’s musical heritage.

Raju Lama is a Nepali singer-songwriter and the lead vocalist of the popular band Mongolian Heart. Born on March 16, 1978, in Sindhupalchok, Nepal, he has been active in the Nepali music industry since 1993. His music spans multiple languages, including Nepali, Tibetan, and Tamang, making him a versatile artist. Career Highlights Raju Lama has released several successful albums, including: Soltini (1995) Mongolian Heart (1996) Mongolian Heart Vol 2 (1999) Mongolian Heart Vol 3 (2002) Mongolian Heart Vol 4 (2006) Mongolian Heart Vol 5 (2009) Mongolian Heart Vol 6 (2012) Mongolian Heart Vol 7 (2018) Awards & Achievements Raju Lama has won multiple awards, including: Best Vocal (Nepal) – 1996 Music Nepal Gold Medal – 1999 Highest Selling Album of the Year – Hits FM Awards (2002) Winning Coach of The Voice of Nepal Season 4 – 2022 Social Work & Everest Expedition Beyond music, Raju Lama is also known for his social work. In 2022, he climbed Mount Everest (8,848.86m) to raise awareness about climate change and global warming. As part of his expedition, he performed a solo concert between Camp 2 and Camp 3 at 6574m, making it one of the highest-altitude performances ever.

Nisha Deshar (निशा देशार) is a distinguished Nepali singer renowned for her contributions to the genres of ghazals and modern Nepali songs. Born on December 12, 1984 (Poush 27, 2041 B.S.), in Chapagaun, Lalitpur, Nepal, she is the daughter of Gyanlal Deshar and Chiri Maya Deshar. Nisha's musical journey commenced in 2001 (2058 B.S.) with her debut recording in the Nepal Bhasha language. She holds a Diploma in Music from Prayag Sangeet Samiti, Allahabad, and has pursued academic studies, completing her SLC from Prerana Mahila Bidhyalaya and +2 from Bagmati Community Campus, majoring in English. Throughout her career, Nisha has released several albums, including:​ Lokarpan (2067 B.S.): A collection of ghazals and modern songs.​ Nisha (2070 B.S.): A compilation in the Nepal Bhasha language.​ Sharab (2071 B.S.): An album dedicated to ghazals.​ Her melodious voice and emotive performances have earned her accolades such as the Image Award, Bindabasini Award, Kalika Award, and the Rapati National Ghazal Award. In addition to her recordings, Nisha actively engages in nurturing young talent. She served as the chief guest at the Inter School Nepali Ghazal Singing Competition organized by DAV School, where she performed and motivated aspiring singers.

Kamala Sapkota is a renowned Nepali singer & Belly Dancer. She was born on Ashoj 16 in Garamani, Jhapa. She was interested in music since childhood and she also loved singing and dancing. She moved to Kathmandu and worked as a make-up artist for actors and actresses in Nepali films to make ends meet. She started her musical career from her album ‘Mausam, under the label of Reeyaz Music Company.