Shiva Pariyar

Norden Tenzing is a legendary Nepali vocalist and the charismatic frontman of The Hillians, the pioneering Darjeeling band that helped define the sound of modern Nepali pop and rock. Known for blending Western harmonies with Nepali melodic roots, he became one of the most influential voices of the 1970s–80s music renaissance in the hills. His evergreen hits — “Musu Musu Hasideu,” “Gajalu Aakhai Chopne,” and other beloved tracks — cemented his status as a cultural icon across the Nepali‑speaking world. Norden’s soulful voice, innovative arrangements, and electrifying stage presence introduced a fresh musical identity that inspired generations of artists. Through his work with The Hillians, he expanded the creative possibilities of Nepali modern music and remains celebrated as one of Darjeeling’s most enduring musical legends.

Kranti Ale is a Nepali singer and the lead vocalist of the band Dr Pilot, which was formed in 1996. Initially, the band performed cover songs before transitioning to original music, recording their first songs at Music Nepal in 1998. Ale gained widespread recognition with the release of "Sarkari Jagira" in 2004, recorded at Opus. His band won Best Vocal Performance by a Group or Duo at the 7th Annual Image Award Show on May 28.

Master Mitrasen Thapa Magar (1895–1946) was a pioneering Nepali folk singer, dramatist, social reformer, and cultural ambassador whose work laid the foundation for organized Nepali folk performance. Born in Bhagsu, Dharamshala, he served in the Gurkha Regiment before dedicating his life to music, theatre, and community upliftment. He performed widely across India and Nepal, including Kathmandu Durbar, where he presented folk songs, dramas, and shamanic‑influenced performances, earning high recognition and public felicitation. His mission was to preserve Nepali identity among diaspora communities through art, discipline, and cultural pride. Master Mitrasen recorded seven gramophone discs in Calcutta, a rare achievement for a Nepali artist of his era. Out of his 63 known compositions, 23 songs survive in recorded form. In 1942, he wrote “Buddhvaani” in Nepali to spread messages of peace, compassion, and social harmony. He passed away in 1946 while on a cultural tour, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire Nepali folk musicians worldwide.

Navneet Aditya Waiba is a Nepali folk singer, songwriter, and cultural researcher from Siliguri, West Bengal. She is the daughter of the late Hira Devi Waiba, the first professional Nepali folk singer. After her mother’s passing in 2011, Navneet left her career as a senior flight purser in Hong Kong to revive and preserve her family’s musical legacy. Together with her brother Satya Aditya Waiba, she launched the tribute album Ama Lai Shraddhanjali in 2017, re-recording her mother’s iconic songs using traditional instruments and arrangements. Navneet’s music focuses on authentic Nepali folk traditions, especially highlighting women’s voices and rural narratives. She collaborates with the Kathmandu-based folk band Kutumba and continues to perform across South Asia. Navneet is widely respected for her commitment to cultural preservation and her efforts to inspire younger generations to reconnect with their roots through music.