Phoebe Shrestha

Dashain and Malshree Dhun are deeply connected in Nepali culture. The sacred melody of Malshree is considered the musical soul of Dashain, and helping preserve this tradition is Nepal’s first and only female sarod player, Rupa Neupane. Rupa Neupane was born in Asar 2026 B.S. (1969 A.D.) in Mulpani, Kathmandu. She was married at the age of 12 in 2038 B.S. Despite early marriage and social responsibilities, her passion for music gradually found its way into her life. At the age of 24, in 2050 B.S. (1993 A.D.), she began learning the sarod, marking the beginning of her remarkable musical journey. She first trained under senior sarod maestro Mohan Sundar Shrestha in Kathmandu. Later, she continued her studies with Suresh Raj Bajracharya and further refined her skills under Dr. Anupama Kumari in India. Through dedication and continuous practice, she steadily established herself as a respected sarod instrumentalist. In a field traditionally dominated by men, Rupa Neupane broke barriers and created a historic identity as Nepal’s pioneering female sarod player. Her performances of Malshree Dhun during Dashain have strengthened the cultural connection between classical instrumental music and Nepal’s most celebrated festival. Today, she continues her journey as a committed sarod artist, inspiring women and young musicians across the country. Her life reflects perseverance, courage, and devotion to classical music, proving that passion and determination can overcome social and personal challenges.

Born in february 5, 1988. Bred in Kathmandu Valley. Started performing at the age of 5. After ending up as the second runner up in national level broadcasted singing competition 'Nepal Star - 2005' at the age of 16 ; continued music studies in Kathmandu University later in affiliation with SOAS ( University of London ). Currently studying Masters in music. Field of expertise in occidental and oriental music in general. Which includes Music - research, business, analysis; musicology, singing-song writing, composing, arranging & production ( contemporary styles, orchestration, background scoring, vocal designing ). Instrumentalist of guitar, piano ( contemporary Jazz, classical ), Vocal ( styles: Khayal, Dhrupad, Belcanto - tenor, rock-pop, R&B, Rap ), local instruments ( Dhimay baja, madal, Sarangi )

Prince Nepali is a fourth-generation Nepali sarangi player and educator. He has made significant contributions to preserving and promoting traditional Nepali folk music through his exceptional skills and dedication. Career Highlights Sarangi Player: Prince Nepali is known for his mastery of the sarangi, a traditional Nepali string instrument. He has performed with various artists and bands, including Bipul Chettri, Ani Choying Drolma, and Sujan Chapagain. Educator: He runs classes at Sarangi Ghar, where he teaches the next generation of sarangi players and works to preserve traditional Nepali music. Fusion Band: Prince Nepali co-founded the Nepali-American folk fusion band Manaslu Blue, blending Appalachian Bluegrass with Nepali folk music

Kundan Shah Shankar (कुन्दन शाह शंकर) is a talented Nepali tabla player and percussionist known for his deep-rooted connection to classical rhythms and his dynamic presence across Nepal’s major music platforms. He has earned recognition through his performances on shows like Nepal Idol, The Voice of Nepal, and Mero Voice Universe, where his tabla artistry adds a rich traditional layer to contemporary arrangements. He is also the host of “Rhythms of Tradition with Kundan Shah Shankar,” a musical series that celebrates classical and folk percussion, often featuring collaborations with vocalists and instrumentalists. His playing style blends precision with expressive flair, making him a sought-after accompanist in both studio recordings and live concerts.