Dr.Bhola Rijal

Navras Shrestha is the founder, lead vocalist, guitarist, lyricist, and composer of The Lakhey, Nepal’s pioneering Newa (Newari) metal band based in Kathmandu. Known for blending traditional Newar musical elements with the power and edge of metal, Navras has carved out a space for a truly indigenous and modern sound that speaks both to cultural identity and musical evolution. His first Newa metal song, Dhampa Tacha, was recorded in 2005—a bold and groundbreaking transformation of a Newa rap piece into a heavy, guitar-driven anthem that laid the foundation for what would become the Newa Metal genre. Over the years, Navras has created and performed a variety of original songs and covers that showcase his wide-ranging musicality. Tracks like Jeevan, Miss Julie (a fully home-recorded, arranged, mixed, and mastered song), and Ae Kancha (a duet cover with a female vocalist) reflect both his technical abilities and his emotional range as a musician. His reimagining of Malshree Dhun—a revered Newari and Nepali traditional piece—is particularly notable for incorporating Spanish and Indian Rajasthani techniques and a touch of Hindustani classical flavor with heavy drumming, giving the folk tune a new life in a contemporary soundscape. Navras’s musical curiosity extends beyond local traditions—he has embraced songs in foreign languages, including a Georgian piece (Erti Nakhavit by Chveneburebi), while also composing original works like Swagta Mu Hai Nheeaye in Nepal’s Thakali language. In 2022, Navras completed his Master of Fine Arts in Music with a focus on Hindustani Classical music. During this time, he developed a deep interest in songs from various ethnic and regional backgrounds of Nepal. Rather than simply studying them academically, Navras has immersed himself in the melodies, rhythms, and stories found in songs of Nepal Bhasa (Newar), Charya (ritual Buddhist music), Tharu, and Limbu and other indigenous languages. He is currently preparing to record and preserve these culturally significant pieces with modern arrangements—ensuring their continuity and relevance for future generations. His academic contribution is also noteworthy. For his master’s thesis, Navras conducted in-depth research on Dapha music (Asan Bajan Guthi). His thesis has since become a valuable resource for members of the Guthi and other musicians who are interested in traditional music. The work not only documented the artform but also shed light on the present condition and challenges faced by the community in keeping their musical heritage alive. While music is his core identity, Navras Shrestha is also a skilled Full Stack Web Developer by profession and currently works at GTA Nepal. His ability to balance a demanding tech career with an expansive artistic practice speaks to his discipline and creativity. In addition, he is deeply passionate about photography and videography. From capturing evocative model portraits to creative visual storytelling, his visual work complements his music, allowing him to express his artistry across multiple forms. Whether through metal riffs rooted in Newa culture, folk songs from across Nepal’s diverse communities, world music explorations, or visual compositions, Navras Shrestha stands out as a multi-talented, cross-disciplinary artist. He continues to inspire others not just with what he creates, but with how he connects deeply to culture, community, and creativity.

Sanjay Man Shrestha is a Nepali singer and musician. In 1992, Shrestha founded the pop music band Crossroads, which fused western-style singing and traditional Nepali instrumental music. Shrestha produced several popular songs, including the hit Maya Meri Maya.

Thule Rai is a respected Nepali singer known for his contributions to modern and folk music. His songs, such as Srapai Deu and Man Bhitra, have gained popularity among Nepali music lovers. In addition to his musical career, he serves as a police officer in the Nepal Police. His dual role as an artist and law enforcement officer showcases his dedication to both cultural and public service.

Santosh Bhakta Shrestha is a renowned Nepali esraj player, freelance musician, and respected music teacher celebrated for his mastery of this rare bowed string instrument. With decades of dedication to classical and devotional music, he has become a leading figure in preserving and promoting the esraj tradition in Nepal. His performances—such as the soulful rendition of “Jaha Chhan Buddhaka Aankha”—are marked by emotional depth and technical brilliance. Santosh Bhakta has collaborated with prominent artists and institutions, including SAC Music International and Dhrupad Gurukul Kathmandu, where he has performed ragas like JogKauns in intimate classical gatherings. His style is known for its fluid bowing, vocal-like phrasing, and meditative resonance, making him a sought-after performer and mentor. As a freelance teacher, he continues to inspire the next generation of musicians, ensuring that the esraj remains a living, breathing part of Nepal’s musical heritage.