Bhagawan Bhandari

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.

Prem Raja Mahat is a renowned Nepali folk singer, songwriter, and musician. Often referred to as the "Elvis of the Himalayas," he has made significant contributions to Nepali folk music since the late 1970s. Some of his timeless classics include Bajho Khet Ma, Paan Ko Paat, and Simsime Panima. He is also known for playing traditional Nepali instruments like the sarangi and madal. Born in Tanahun, Nepal, Prem Raja Mahat faced hardships early in life, losing both parents at a young age. Despite these challenges, he pursued his passion for music and became a celebrated artist. In 1996, he immigrated to the United States, where he continued to create music and even opened a Nepali restaurant in Baltimore

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.

Ganga Rana was one of Nepal’s most influential voices in adhunik (modern) music, celebrated for her effortless singing style and her rare ability to perform both modern and folk songs with equal mastery. Her patriotic songs, emotional depth, and artistic versatility made her a defining figure in Nepal’s musical history. She was not only a singer but also a composer and lyricist, contributing significantly to the creative evolution of Nepali music.Born on Poush 9, 1996 BS in Rumjatar, Okhaldhunga, to Champa Singh Gurung and Chandra Devi Gurung Rana, she moved to Kathmandu at a young age with her elder sister and brother‑in‑law to pursue her education. However, her passion for music soon took precedence. While studying at Gaushala Adhar School, Chabahil, she actively participated in singing, dancing, and acting—laying the foundation for her artistic journey.Ganga Rana recorded her first song at Radio Nepal at age 14, and by 2010 BS, she was working there professionally. Her breakthrough moment came during the coronation of King Mahendra, where her performance captivated the entire audience. In 2011 BS, she gained national and international attention after singing a patriotic song to welcome Chinese Prime Minister Chou En‑lai during his visit to Nepal.She married Nur Pratap Rana in 2018 BS, and they had three children—sons Kundan Pratap and Amir Pratap, and daughter Rakshya Rana, who later became Nepal’s first female pilot.Throughout her career, Ganga Rana earned numerous honors:Gold Medal for acting from Nepal Rastriya Pustakalaya (2016 BS)2nd place in Radio Nepal’s Adhunik Singing Competition (2019 BS)1st place in the same competition (2020 BS)Awarded by King Mahendra for winning again in 2023 BSHonored for acting by the Cultural Association (2030 BS)Shree Panch Birendra Subharajyabhishek Padak (2031 BS)In 2049 BS, her husband established the Nurganga Puraskar Guthi in her memory, honoring artists from Lumbini every year.