Ankit Babu Adhikari

Bhupendra Rayamajhi is a renowned Nepali musician, music director, arranger, and lyricist with over 30 years of experience in the music industry. His passion for music began in childhood and turned professional when he joined Radio Nepal as a guitarist in 1983, later becoming a music arranger in 1990. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Music from Prayag Samiti, Allahabad, India. In 1998, he was appointed Chief of the Music Department at Radio Nepal, where he played a vital role in nurturing and uplifting Nepali music. He retired from Radio Nepal in 2018 and continues to create heartfelt music that connects with audiences worldwide.

Born on December 11 in Kathmandu, Nepal, to Devendra Prasad Bhatta and Tara Devi Bhatta, Manzayashree Bhatta was raised in the Samakhusi area of Kathmandu. Despite having no formal musical training, she discovered her innate singing talent early on, considering it a divine gift. Her musical journey commenced in 2004 with the recording of her debut song, “Sinduri Sanjh Ma”, composed by her sister Anusha and penned by her brother Rajan. In 2005, she released her first album, “Magnet”, marking her official entry into the Nepali music industry. Her mother has been a significant source of inspiration throughout her musical endeavors. One of her notable songs, “Timlai Samjhiye”, gained popularity among listeners and media, further establishing her presence in the music scene. In 2024, Manzayashree achieved international recognition with the release of her single “Jhyain”, a collaborative Indo-Nepali fusion track featuring Bollywood singer Dev Negi. The song was showcased at Times Square in New York City, symbolizing a significant milestone in her career. The music video, directed by renowned cinematographer Binod Pradhan, was filmed at Mumbai's Imperial Palace and featured choreography by the acclaimed duo Bosco-Caesar. The track has garnered over 84.5 million views on YouTube, highlighting its global appeal .

Melwa Devi Gurung, also known as Melawa Devi, holds the distinction of being Nepal's first female recording artist. Born in 1954 B.S. (circa 1897) in Rumjatar, Okhaldhunga District, Nepal, she emerged as a pioneering figure in the nation's musical landscape. In 1928, Melwa Devi traveled to Calcutta (now Kolkata), British India, to record her songs, marking a significant milestone in Nepali music history. Among her notable recordings are "Na Gharlai Ghar Kahincha Nari Nai Durbar Ho" and "Sawari Mero Relaima," which resonated with many listeners and showcased her exceptional talent. Her musical prowess garnered the attention of Chandra Shumsher Jang Bahadur Rana, the Prime Minister of Nepal at the time, under whose patronage she performed. Melwa Devi's contributions not only paved the way for future generations of female artists but also enriched Nepal's cultural heritage.​ In recognition of her impact, Nepal issued a commemorative postage stamp in her honor in 2013, celebrating her legacy as an eminent singer.

Jhalakman Gandharva (झलकमान गन्धर्व) was a pioneering Nepali folk singer who popularized Gaine Geet, giving voice to Nepal’s marginalized Gandharbha community. Born on July 29, 1935, in Batulochaur, Pokhara, Jhalakman began singing at age nine, traveling village to village with his sarangi. He became the first Gaine artist to record songs, transforming oral traditions into mass media. His haunting ballads, especially “Aamale Sodhlin Ni”, mourned the death of Nepali soldiers abroad and resonated deeply across generations. Active from 1965 until his death in 2003, he recorded over 100 songs, blending folk and classical styles. His music preserved indigenous narratives and challenged caste-based exclusion, earning him national reverence. Jhalakman’s legacy lives on as a cultural bridge—his voice remains a symbol of dignity, sorrow, and resilience.