Nagendra Bikram Rai

Mohan Sundar Shrestha was a distinguished Nepali sarod player who dedicated nearly five decades of his life to the art of sarod performance. Despite losing vision in both eyes, he made an extraordinary contribution to the development and promotion of sarod music in Nepal. Early Life and Musical Training He was born in Kilagal, Kathmandu, Nepal. At the age of 12, he began learning the sarod under the guidance of senior sitar and sarod maestro Narayan Prasad Shrestha. His formal musical journey began in 1970, marking the start of a lifelong devotion to classical instrumental music. Professional Career In 2026 B.S., Shrestha joined Rastriya Nachghar (National Theatre) as a staff musician. From 2037 to 2068 B.S., he worked on a contractual basis as a musician at Radio Nepal. His sarod compositions were featured in songs by singer Shiv Shankar, bringing classical depth to Nepali music. He also served as a court musician at the former Royal Palace of Nepal and officially retired in 2007. A significant milestone in his life came in 2042 B.S. (1985 A.D.), when he was granted the opportunity to perform before King Birendra. After the performance, the King praised his artistry and inquired about his well-being. Upon learning of his wish for stable employment, the King recommended him to perform regularly at the Royal Palace. As a result, Shrestha performed sarod at royal events for 22 years. Following an unexpected retirement notice from Radio Nepal without prior information, he continued his musical journey by performing regularly at Hotel Annapurna. Performances and Contributions Throughout his career, he performed at several prominent venues and religious sites including: Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple, Ram Mandir Battisputali, Yala Maya Kendra & Rastriya Nachghar. He also released instrumental albums titled Favorite and Favorite–2, which featured sarod melodies cherished by classical music enthusiasts. Passing Mohan Sundar Shrestha passed away on 24 Falgun 2077 B.S. (March 8, 2021), at 6:40 PM at Green City Hospital in Kathmandu at the age of 80. Legacy Despite the immense challenges of losing his eyesight, Mohan Sundar Shrestha remained devoted to music throughout his life. His dedication, resilience, and mastery of the sarod have left a lasting legacy in Nepal’s classical music tradition. He is remembered as one of the pioneering figures in Nepali sarod performance.

Manice Gandharva is a talented musician known for his mastery of the sarangi, a traditional Nepali string instrument. His soulful melodies have resonated with audiences, and he has collaborated with various artists to create beautiful music. Here are some interesting facts about Manice Gandharva: Sarangi Virtuoso: Manice Gandharva is an accomplished sarangi player. The sarangi is a bowed instrument with a rich history in Nepali and Indian classical music. Manice’s skillful strumming and emotive playing have captivated listeners. Late Start: Surprisingly, Manice wasn’t initially drawn to the sarangi. As a child, he was more interested in playing the drums. However, at the age of 14, he began learning the sarangi from his uncle, Bikram Gandharva, who was also a sarangi player. Collaborations: Manice has collaborated with fellow musicians, contributing to various projects. One notable collaboration is the song “Hamro Nepal Ma,” where he played the sarangi alongside Chetan Raj Karki. The song, composed by Neetesh Jung Kunwar, celebrates the beauty and spirit of Nepal. Teaching Sarangi: Manice is passionate about preserving and promoting traditional music. He conducts sarangi classes, welcoming beginners and advanced learners alike. His dedication to teaching ensures that the art of sarangi playing continues to thrive. Manice Gandharva weaves melodies that evoke the essence of Nepal, connecting listeners to their cultural roots. His commitment to this ancient instrument and its timeless music is truly commendable. 🎶

Manohar Sunam is a distinguished Nepali music arranger and instrumentalist, renowned for his significant contributions to the Nepali music and film industry. His expertise in music arrangement has enriched numerous songs and films, leaving a lasting impact on Nepal's musical landscape. Career Highlights: Throughout his career, Manohar Sunam has been instrumental in arranging music for various Nepali movies and songs. Notable works include: "Samarpan": In this film, Sunam served as the music arranger, showcasing his ability to enhance cinematic narratives through his musical compositions. "Dulahi Rani": His role as the music arranger in this movie further exemplifies his versatility and dedication to the craft. "Piratiko Paluwa": Sunam's recent involvement as a music arranger in this project highlights his enduring presence and relevance in the industry. Collaborations: Manohar Sunam has collaborated with various artists and filmmakers, contributing to the success of numerous projects. His collaborations have resulted in memorable songs and soundtracks that resonate with audiences. Online Presence: For those interested in exploring his work, Manohar Sunam's music arrangements can be found in various Nepali films and music videos. Platforms like YouTube host several of these works, providing easy access to his contributions. Additional Information: While detailed personal information about Manohar Sunam is limited, his professional achievements and contributions to Nepali music are well-recognized. His dedication to music arrangement has played a pivotal role in shaping the soundscape of Nepali cinema and music.

Ratna BK (also known as Ratna BK Utsuk) is a Nepali flutist, instrumental composer, and live performer from Surkhet, known for his soulful flute melodies, folk‑inspired phrasing, and modern instrumental arrangements. Active on digital platforms and stage performances, he has become one of the most recognized flute artists from Mid‑Western Nepal, with a strong following on YouTube, TikTok, and streaming platforms. His flute covers—especially Keshari (Kabaddi 4), Marne Kasailai Rahar Hudaina, and various Nepali lok‑dhun mashups—have gained high engagement, showcasing his ability to blend traditional Nepali melodies with contemporary sound design.