Dhiraj Rai

Bunu Rai Manandhar is a Nepali singer known for her soulful voice, emotional depth, and unique journey into the music world. She was born on December 20 in Tokdah, Darjeeling, as the youngest daughter of D.S. Rai and Bindu Rai. Raised in a family of three sisters, Bunu describes herself as a disciplined yet short-tempered child who didn’t engage in school musical activities despite a deep-rooted love for music. She completed her schooling, higher secondary education, and Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Griffith Higher Secondary School. After graduation, she moved to Kathmandu to pursue a career in music. However, life had other plans, and she began working as a pre-primary teacher at Gyanodaya School. While juggling teaching and personal responsibilities, she frequently traveled between Nepal and Darjeeling to complete her remaining academic work. Though she never took formal music lessons, her passion led her to join a local band named “Aarti” as the lead vocalist. This marked the beginning of her stage performances at various local events. Self-taught and dedicated, Bunu practiced regularly at home and honed her craft on her own terms. Her first major breakthrough came when she participated in the prestigious Narayan Gopal Sandhya Sajh, where she secured a spot among the Top 10 performers. This encouraged her to record her first few songs: "Yo Hariyali" composed by Shila Bahadur Moktan "Juna Ko Chaya" featured in Rocky Thapa’s collection album After a long hiatus of 20 years, Bunu made a stunning comeback with her debut solo album “Imagination”, released in 2012. Popular Songs by Bunu Rai Manandhar Korera Prem Patra (ft. Kamal Khatri) – An emotional duet that resonates with themes of love and longing. Jhilmil Sitara (feat. Rose) – A melodic song highlighting her vocal elegance. Yo Hariyali – A nostalgic tune composed by Shila Bdr. Moktan. Juna Ko Chaya – Featured in Rocky Thapa’s compilation album. Banma Fulyo – A contemporary folk-inspired release. Zha Zhal Ko – A rhythmic and expressive number. Bunu Rai Manandhar’s story is one of resilience and quiet determination — an artist who began her journey late, without formal training, yet carved a place in Nepali music through talent, hard work, and authenticity.

Ustad Bhairav Bahadur Thapa (1925 June 30 AD / 1982 Ashar 16 BS, Kuleshwor, Kathmandu) was a pioneering Nepali composer, vocalist, and mentor whose influence shaped the foundation of modern Nepali music. He introduced and guided many of Nepal’s celebrated singers, lyricists, and composers including the legendary Tara Devi into their musical journeys.Thapa began his professional musical journey around 2005 BS (1948/49 AD), marking the start of a prolific career. Over the decades, he composed music for nearly 1,000 songs and recorded vocals for more than 500 songs, establishing the artistic and technical standards of Nepali modern music.Alongside music, he performed in numerous Radio Nepal dramas and acted in films such as Hijo Aaja Bholi, Aama, and Manko Baadh. His daughter Bhuvan Thapa, the lead actress of Nepal’s first feature film Aama, was also a singer with around fifty recorded songs.In 2022 BS (1965 AD), during the Grand Music Conference held in Kathmandu, King Mahendra honored him with the prestigious title “Ustad.” Ustad Bhairav Bahadur Thapa passed away on 2039 Poush 18 BS (1983 January 2 AD), leaving behind an enduring legacy in Nepali music and performing arts.

​Baba Rana (बाबा राणा) is a distinguished Nepali singer renowned for her melodious voice and significant contributions to Nepali music. Born in Palpa, Nepal, she moved to Pokhara at the age of one and was raised in a musically inclined family. Her father, Colonel Dhan Bikram Rana, and her uncles were instrumental in nurturing her musical talents. She began singing at the age of nine and recorded her first song, "Dam Dam Damphu Bajeko Talai Ma," in 1971 (BS 2028) for Radio Nepal. Throughout her career, Baba Rana has recorded over 2,000 songs across various genres, including folk, modern, devotional, opera, film, and ghazals. Her notable songs include:​ "Karodau Mutuharuko Eutai Dhukdhuki Nepal" "Saaiko Ghar Kaha Ho Kaha" "Birsijane Nisturi" "He Aama Janmayau Kina" "Chautarima Ma Base Holaki"​ In recognition of her contributions, she received the "Famous Class Singer" title from Radio Nepal in 2055 BS and has been honored with awards such as the Prabal Gorkha Dakshin Bahu IV and the Indra Rajya Laxmi Puraskar. Baba Rana's dedication to music continues as she resides in Pokhara with her family, engaging in musical pursuits and honoring the legacy of her late husband, singer Saroj Gopal Bajracharya. ​

Raj Rai is a rising Nepali singer hailing from Okhaldhunga, whose emotionally rich voice and heartfelt delivery first caught national attention during The Voice of Nepal Season 3. His memorable Blind Audition performance of “Panchi” by Pushpan Pradhan showcased his deep connection to Nepali melodies and earned him a loyal fan base. Beyond the television spotlight, Raj has continued to grow as a versatile folk and contemporary singer. He gained significant recognition through his involvement in the popular Purbeli Juhari song: “Besi Gaiko Goth” – Performed alongside Abhay Dhungel, Alina Rai, and Susmita Katwal, this culturally resonant song brings to life everyday stories from the eastern hills of Nepal, particularly from Mane Bhanjyang, Unbu, Waksa, and Udaypur. The song’s lively rhythm and nostalgic lyrics have made it a fan favorite on social platforms. Raj Rai’s style balances the power of traditional storytelling with modern arrangements, contributing to a new wave of Nepali music that feels both rooted and refreshing.