Dwarika Lal Joshi

Kumar Basnet (born 7 July 1938) is one of Nepal’s most celebrated folk icons, renowned for his energetic performance style, satirical humor, and pioneering contribution to modern lok geet. Widely known as “Lok Samrat”, he popularized comedic and socially reflective folk music through classics like “Lai Bari Lai,” “Ama Bhanda,” “Herda Ramo,” and “Goru Bhanjyang.” Active since the late 1950s, Basnet’s charismatic stage presence earned him comparisons to Elvis Presley within Nepal’s folk scene. His achievements include the Tri‑Shakti Patta, Gorkha Dakshin Bahu, Birendra–Aishwarya Sewa Padak, and the Ratna Record Puraskar, honoring his lifelong impact on Nepali cultural heritage.

Jayananda Lama (1956–2020) was a respected Nepali singer, actor, and cultural contributor known for his powerful folk‑based vocal style and memorable performances in Nepali cinema. A graduate of Lalit Kala Campus and an advocate of Nepali folk heritage, he recorded numerous hit songs and appeared in several films, earning recognition for his natural acting and deep musical understanding. His work blended authenticity, humor, and cultural storytelling, making him one of the beloved figures in Nepali performing arts.

Devi Gharti Magar is one of Nepal’s most celebrated folk singers, renowned for her powerful voice and deep connection to traditional Lok Dohori music. Born on January 5, 1986, in Ramuwa, Baglung, she has become a household name through decades of dedication to Nepali folk culture. Her musical journey began in the early 2000s, and she rose to prominence through duets with her husband and frequent collaborator, Raju Dhakal. Together, they’ve delivered countless hits, including “Oralima Bar”, “Dui Mutuko Bandhan”, and “Takine Aaina”. Her discography also features beloved songs like “Banki Chari” with Arjun Sapkota, “Lauri Harayo” with Pashupati Sharma, and “Rudai Fulyo Makhmali” with Badri Pangeni. Devi has received numerous accolades, including the Music Khabar Music Award, Teej Music Award, and Kalika Music Award, recognizing her as one of the best female folk singers in Nepal. She was also elected as a central member of the Lok Dohori Pratisthan in 2019, affirming her leadership in the folk music community. Her recent releases like “Saili Salala” and “Kholi Salala Jhaliko Jhalala” continue to resonate with audiences, blending heartfelt lyrics with traditional melodies.  

Ram Prasad Khanal is a Nepali folk singer, lyricist, and cultural promoter known for his contribution to lok‑geet, dohori, and traditional Nepali musical heritage. Active since the 1990s, he has recorded and performed numerous folk songs rooted in rural narratives, social themes, and Nepali cultural identity.Beyond singing, he is widely recognized for his role in promoting Nepali folk music internationally, especially through community events, cultural programs, and media engagement. His work has helped preserve and popularize traditional Nepali melodies among both domestic and diaspora audiences.