Abhisek Bhadra

Deep Tuladhar is a legendary Nepali sound engineer, music producer, and playback singer whose career spans nearly four decades. He has worked behind the scenes on over 15,000 songs, shaping the sonic identity of modern Nepali music across genres—from folk and pop to film soundtracks. He is best known for his contributions to iconic films like Balidaan (1997), where he served as a playback singer, and Thuldai (1999), where he worked as a sound recordist and music technician. His technical expertise and artistic sensibility have made him a go-to figure for generations of Nepali musicians and filmmakers. In addition to his studio work, Tuladhar has also released devotional and cover songs, such as Dakshinkali Bhajan and a tribute to Mohammad Rafi titled Ek Haseen Sham Ko. His recent appearance on the Mhendolafole Podcast offered a rare glimpse into his journey, challenges, and the evolution of sound design in Nepal.  

Surendra Shrestha is a Nepali music composer, arranger, and singer known for creating original modern, festive, and devotional songs. Working from Sur Melody Recording Studio, Chhetrapati, he writes, composes, and arranges his own music, giving his work a distinct melodic and emotional signature. His releases—ranging from romantic to spiritual—feature clean arrangements, balanced instrumentation, and expressive vocals that reflect his identity as a self‑sufficient contemporary artist.

The year 2004 introduced Moment of Bliss, the album that included the song Phul ko Akhaan Maa, which brought Ani Choying Drolma much acclaim. The song, written by Durga Lal Shrestha and composed by Nhyoo Bajracharya, went on to be one of the most played songs on media and one would be hard-pressed to find anybody in Kathmandu who hadn’t heard the tune. The song broke the monotony of the then popular music with its melody and easy flowing instrumentation and Ani’s soothing, almost meditative vocals. Although largely unrecognised by the public, Gopal Rasaily, the arranger of the song, also managed to gather appreciation for his work from others in the business; it represented a breakthrough for him in the Nepali music industry. Rasaily, who is also the in-house arranger at the Do Re Mi studio.

Vishal Poudel is a singer, musician, sound producer, arranger, and songwriter who has been active in the Nepali music industry for nearly 20 years. His career spans studio production, live performance, composition, and genre‑blending experimentation. He is the founder of the progressive‑rock and social‑issue–focused band Kalpavriksha, formed four years ago, where he serves as vocalist, instrumentalist, composer, and arranger. Musical Identity & StylePoudel’s musical foundation comes from intense self‑training—he recalls practicing guitar up to 16 hours a day, learning by ear from bands like Iron Maiden, whose influence shaped his vocal tone and performance energy. His personal affinity for jazz and his band’s focus on progressive rock give his work a hybrid, modern sound. Career HighlightsFounder of Kalpavriksha, a band dedicated to music about social justice, political issues, mental health, spiritualism, and transgender rights.Released the band’s debut track “Lyang Bho”, a progressive‑rock piece addressing corruption and youth frustration in Nepal.Preparing the next release, “Kalpavriksha”, a storytelling music video centered on transgender experiences in Nepal.Has worked for nearly two decades as a music arranger, sound producer, and instrumentalist, collaborating with major Nepali vocalists including Nabin K. Bhattarai and Hemanta Rana.