Lok Raj Adhikari

Chetan Karki was a legendary Nepali lyricist, film director, screenwriter, and novelist who made a lasting impact on Nepali cinema and music. Born on November 7, 1938, in Syangja, Nepal, he was one of the first screenwriters in Nepali cinema, writing his debut screenplay for Pariwartan. Over his career, he contributed to more than 100 Nepali films as a writer and director. Career Highlights Chetan Karki was known for his versatile storytelling and lyrical compositions. Some of his notable works include: Films: Bishwas, Pahilo Prem, Bhumari, Maya Priti, Kanchi, Kanyadan Songs: Teejako Rahara Aayo Barilai, Bainiko Dayacha Bhane Publications: He published poetry collections in Nepali, Hindi, and Urdu, along with novels and song collections. Personal Life & Legacy Chetan Karki passed away on May 16, 2021, due to COVID-19 complications at the age of 83. His contributions to Nepali literature, music, and cinema remain influential, and he is remembered as one of Nepal’s most extraordinary talents.

Rajendra Shalabh (also credited as Rajendra Salav) is a veteran Nepali filmmaker and lyricist whose career spans cinema, literature, media, and cultural programming. Active since 1990, he has directed notable Nepali films such as Bijaya Parajaya (1990), Bhauju (1993), and Paribhasha (1994), and contributed as a lyricist and writer across multiple projects.Beyond cinema, Shalabh is recognized as a poet, cultural organizer, and media professional. He has been involved in poetry recitation programs, literary events, and audiovisual poetry projects featuring major Nepali poets. His multidisciplinary work extends into television production, education, and entertainment management, including serving as Executive Director of CG Entertainment and working as a Law Associate at Tribhuvan University.

Lochan Rijal is a multi-instrumentalist, a singer, songwriter and a scholar of ethnomusicology. Born in the Panchthar district of Nepal, he grew up around music performed at festivals by the local people of that region. The experience influenced him to explore the potential of sound and develop his passion into his profession. While in college, he began teaching music to school children in Kathmandu while also working in the pop and rock music scene, producing award-winning albums, before moving onto something that fed his scholarly ambitions. In 2014, he graduated with a PhD in ethnomusicology from the University of Massachusetts and Kathmandu University. He also works as the associate professor and Head of Kathmandu University’s Department of Music.

Dayaram Pandey is a Nepali lyricist known for his active contribution to modern Nepali music, film songs, and cultural programs, recognized for his clean lyrical style and growing leadership presence in Nepali creative organizations. He has written songs for films, independent music videos, and thematic projects, including contributions to works such as “Manle Manko Sath Payo” (from Dui Pal) and participation in national thematic songs like the WYF Nepal 2025 theme song.His public presence extends beyond songwriting: he has been elected to leadership roles such as Coordinator of the INAS Asia Region, reflecting his influence in diaspora arts networks and Nepali cultural associations. He is also known for hosting and producing literary‑musical programs such as “Ghazalko Mahfil – A Dayaram Pandey Show,” which blends poetry, music, and cultural storytelling.