Jayanendra Chand Thakuri

Bishnu Bhakta Phuyal was an artist and theater actor. He had been active in Nepali cinema for a long time. Phuyal passed away on the 19th of Poush, 2073 B.S. (January 3, 2017), while performing on stage at the Rastriya Nachghar in Kathmandu. He collapsed while portraying King Janak in the play Maharshi Yagya Valkya, directed by Badri Adhikari. Despite immediate attention, he could not be revived. Phuyal was also seen in the popular comedy series Tito Satya, where he played the role of actress Deepashree Niraula’s father. In addition to television, he acted in numerous Nepali films. He had once expressed a wish to die while working in the theater—and ultimately, he departed while performing on stage. His catchphrase “Youre my love” with hip-hop style from Tito Satya made him widely recognized and beloved by audiences.

Samundra Bhatta is a Nepali filmmaker, director, and writer known for her bold storytelling and cultural depth. A graduate of Toronto Film School, she made her directorial debut with Aadha Page (2016), a romantic drama. Her breakthrough came with Gunyo Cholo: The Dress (2024), a powerful film exploring gender identity and social stigma, starring Najir Husen. The film was selected for the prestigious Photo Film Market in Seattle, USA, gaining international attention. Bhatta’s work blends traditional Nepali themes with contemporary narratives, reflecting her commitment to inclusive cinema. As a rising voice in South Asian film, she continues to challenge norms through visual storytelling.

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.

Soniestha Tamang is a prominent Tamang‑language film actress best known for her leading roles in Mendu Maya and Dorje Don, where her expressive performances and cultural authenticity earned strong appreciation from Tamang audiences. She has appeared in more than 20 Tamang music videos and gained wider visibility through notable features in Rajesh Payal Rai’s “Timile Sochyau Bato Biraeun” and Anju Panta’s “Palpal Dukhayera,” showcasing her confident screen presence and versatile appeal.