Dij Raj Poudel

Shiva Shankar Manandhar (1932–2004) was a legendary figure in Nepali music and cinema, celebrated for his versatility as a singer, composer, and actor. Born in Newroad, Kathmandu, to a musically inclined Newar family, his early exposure to classical Newari songs through his father, Man Bahadur, laid the foundation for his lifelong devotion to music. He joined Radio Nepal in 1951, where he collaborated with Nati Kaji to shape the golden era of Nepali music. Over his prolific career, he composed around 1,200 songs and sang nearly 300, spanning genres like love ballads, bhajans, patriotic anthems, and tragic melodies. His compositions for artists such as Narayan Gopal, Tara Devi, and Aruna Lama remain timeless. 🎬 In cinema, Shiva Shankar played the lead role of Lahure Dai in Aama (1964), Nepal’s first feature film. Though he didn’t pursue acting further, he composed music for several early Nepali films, contributing to the industry's formative sound. 🎶 Sadabahar (Evergreen) Songs: Aama ko sapana – a heartfelt tribute to motherhood Yo Nepali shir uchali – a patriotic anthem Timro lagi ma birsine – a romantic classic His music blended folk traditions with orchestral arrangements, pioneering modern Nepali pop while preserving cultural authenticity. Shiva Shankar received numerous national honors and served as Executive Director of Ratna Recording Corporation (1987–1991). Even post-retirement, he remained a guardian of Nepal’s musical soul.

Bhugoal R. Dahal is a Nepali singer and music instructor known for his warm vocal tone, clean delivery, and his contribution to both modern and semi‑classical Nepali music. Active as a performer and educator, he serves as a music instructor at SS Music School, where he trains emerging vocalists in technique, expression, and performance discipline.Dahal’s singing career includes recorded songs across various modern, lok‑pop, and sentimental albums, along with a growing catalogue of digital releases. His voice is noted for its smooth phrasing, emotional clarity, and adaptability, making him a preferred vocalist for melodic and expressive compositions.As an instructor, he is recognized for his structured teaching approach, focusing on vocal foundation, pitch control, and stylistic interpretation. His dual role as a performer and educator has helped him build a respected presence in Nepal’s evolving music scene.

Thule Rai is a respected Nepali singer known for his contributions to modern and folk music. His songs, such as Srapai Deu and Man Bhitra, have gained popularity among Nepali music lovers. In addition to his musical career, he serves as a police officer in the Nepal Police. His dual role as an artist and law enforcement officer showcases his dedication to both cultural and public service.

Sameera Thapaliya: A Musical Journey Sameera Thapaliya is a versatile Nepali singer known for her powerful vocals and emotive performances. She gained prominence through her participation in two popular Nepali reality shows: “Nepal Idol” and “The Voice of Nepal.” Her journey from reality show stages to creating soul-stirring music has captured the hearts of audiences. Notable Songs: “Duri”: Sameera’s song “Duri” is a beautiful composition that showcases her vocal range and heartfelt delivery. The lyrics, composed by Dipesh Lama, resonate with listeners, making it a memorable track. “Bhutukkai Hunchhu Ma”: In collaboration with Bal Bahadur Rajbanshi, Sameera lent her voice to this soulful Nepali song. The emotional depth of the lyrics and melody makes it a popular choice. Sameera’s rendition of this song, composed by Sandesh Ruchal, showcases her versatility. The fusion of traditional and contemporary elements in this track is delightful.“Baluwa Ra Chhal”: Remember, Sameera Thapaliya’s musical journey continues to evolve, and her passion for music shines through in every note she sings. 🎶