Babu Krishna Pariyar

Khem Raj Gurung was a celebrated Nepalese folk singer and songwriter, known for his contributions to the Lok Dohori genre. Born on January 14, 1975, in Khandbari, Sankhuwasabha district, Nepal, he gained fame with iconic songs like "Wari Jamuna Pari Jamuna," "Aalu Tama," and "Bhanchan Budapakale." His music often carried cultural and moral themes, resonating deeply with audiences across Nepal. Throughout his career, Khem Raj released nine albums, including Jeevan, Aanamol, Dharan-Pokhara, and Dhakre. He was one of the most prominent singers in Nepal during the 1990s and 2000s. Tragically, he passed away on August 25, 2016, at the age of 41 due to complications from a liver infection.  

Tirtha Kumari Thapa is a renowned Nepali folk singer who has been active in the music industry for over five decades. She began her musical journey in 2028 BS with Radio Nepal, recording more than 1,000 songs throughout her career. Her songs often reflect themes of love, nature, and cultural heritage, making her a beloved figure in Nepali folk music. Some of her popular songs include: M Ta Khadin Kuwa Ko Pani Ho Dhunge Bagar Maya Jhanke Phuli, Nakai Ma Bulaki Ukali Ma Pani Hajur Motor Jado Raichha Bari Ko Dil Ma Okharbot Machi Mar Na Hey Dai Ho with Nabin Dhungel She has received numerous awards, including the Prabal Gorkha Dakshin Bahu (2057 BS) and the Birendra Aishwarya Sewa Padak (2058 BS). Recently, she held her first solo musical evening, Tirtha Kumari Swarnim Sanjh 2080, where she performed for nearly two hours, accompanied by her son, Suraj Kumar Thapa, who is also a musician.

Master Mitrasen Thapa Magar (1895–1946) was a pioneering Nepali folk singer, dramatist, social reformer, and cultural ambassador whose work laid the foundation for organized Nepali folk performance. Born in Bhagsu, Dharamshala, he served in the Gurkha Regiment before dedicating his life to music, theatre, and community upliftment. He performed widely across India and Nepal, including Kathmandu Durbar, where he presented folk songs, dramas, and shamanic‑influenced performances, earning high recognition and public felicitation. His mission was to preserve Nepali identity among diaspora communities through art, discipline, and cultural pride. Master Mitrasen recorded seven gramophone discs in Calcutta, a rare achievement for a Nepali artist of his era. Out of his 63 known compositions, 23 songs survive in recorded form. In 1942, he wrote “Buddhvaani” in Nepali to spread messages of peace, compassion, and social harmony. He passed away in 1946 while on a cultural tour, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire Nepali folk musicians worldwide.

Ram Thapa (1958–2008) was a pioneering Nepali folk singer, music director, and Radio Nepal presenter known for his humorous and socially conscious songs. Born in Kamalpokhari, Kathmandu, he began his musical career in 1974 and became a 7th Grade Music Director at Radio Nepal. He sang over 150 folk songs and directed music for more than 200, with hits like Thok Na Madal Thok, Timi Yesai Lajayau, and Ritu Haruma Timi, which was ranked 7th by BBC in 2003. He was the first to publish Nepali music books with lyrics and chords, contributing to music education. Ram Thapa also served as a judge on Nepali Tara I & II, mentoring young talent. He passed away in 2008 due to liver disease.