Ashesh Dangol

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.

Sandip Karki, also known as Sandy Sax, is a talented Nepali saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist. He has been playing the saxophone for over a decade and is dedicated to modernizing the saxophone's presence in the Nepali music scene. Sandip is known for his soulful performances and has contributed to various music projects, including instrumental covers and original compositions.

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.

Sundar Kumar Maharjan is a skilled music instrumentalist. Especially familiar to drum players. He is proficient in many instruments like Madal, Dholak, Guitar etc. He is also a successful music composer.