Nagendra Bikram Rai

Ratna BK, also known as Ratna Bishwakarma, is a talented Nepali flautist and music instrumentalist. He has been playing the flute for over a decade and has made significant contributions to the Nepali music industry through his performances in various recording studios, reality shows, and live concerts. Career Highlights Flute Performances: Ratna BK is known for his exceptional flute performances, which have captivated audiences in Nepal and beyond. Music Videos: He has been featured in numerous music videos, showcasing his versatility and talent. Some of his popular performances include Inspiring Music On Flute, Sakambari Live Flute, and Nepali Lok Geet Mashup Dhun. Collaborations: Ratna has collaborated with various artists and musicians, contributing to the richness of Nepali music.

Surendra Shrestha discovered his passion for tabla at eight, imitating rhythms he heard at local ceremonies. He began formal training at nine under renowned Nepali tabla player Raju Agrawal, mastering accompaniment for folk and modern music. At fourteen, he deepened his classical foundation through eight years of study with Hom Nath Upadhaya. Beginning in 1987, he traveled regularly to Benaras to train with Pandit Chhote Lal Mishra of Kashi Hindu Vishwavidyalaya, earning advanced mastery and later achieving First Division Distinction in Sangeet Praveen (India). Shrestha debuted publicly in 1985 at Nepal’s National Theater and later co‑founded Sur‑Sudha in 1987. He has received honors from Kala Nidhi Mahavidyalaya and other cultural institutions. In recent years, he has represented Nepali classical music internationally, contributed to cultural diplomacy concerts, and mentored a new generation of percussion artists.

Mohan Sundar Shrestha was a distinguished Nepali sarod player who dedicated nearly five decades of his life to the art of sarod performance. Despite losing vision in both eyes, he made an extraordinary contribution to the development and promotion of sarod music in Nepal. Early Life and Musical Training He was born in Kilagal, Kathmandu, Nepal. At the age of 12, he began learning the sarod under the guidance of senior sitar and sarod maestro Narayan Prasad Shrestha. His formal musical journey began in 1970, marking the start of a lifelong devotion to classical instrumental music. Professional Career In 2026 B.S., Shrestha joined Rastriya Nachghar (National Theatre) as a staff musician. From 2037 to 2068 B.S., he worked on a contractual basis as a musician at Radio Nepal. His sarod compositions were featured in songs by singer Shiv Shankar, bringing classical depth to Nepali music. He also served as a court musician at the former Royal Palace of Nepal and officially retired in 2007. A significant milestone in his life came in 2042 B.S. (1985 A.D.), when he was granted the opportunity to perform before King Birendra. After the performance, the King praised his artistry and inquired about his well-being. Upon learning of his wish for stable employment, the King recommended him to perform regularly at the Royal Palace. As a result, Shrestha performed sarod at royal events for 22 years. Following an unexpected retirement notice from Radio Nepal without prior information, he continued his musical journey by performing regularly at Hotel Annapurna. Performances and Contributions Throughout his career, he performed at several prominent venues and religious sites including: Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple, Ram Mandir Battisputali, Yala Maya Kendra & Rastriya Nachghar. He also released instrumental albums titled Favorite and Favorite–2, which featured sarod melodies cherished by classical music enthusiasts. Passing Mohan Sundar Shrestha passed away on 24 Falgun 2077 B.S. (March 8, 2021), at 6:40 PM at Green City Hospital in Kathmandu at the age of 80. Legacy Despite the immense challenges of losing his eyesight, Mohan Sundar Shrestha remained devoted to music throughout his life. His dedication, resilience, and mastery of the sarod have left a lasting legacy in Nepal’s classical music tradition. He is remembered as one of the pioneering figures in Nepali sarod performance.

Saran Kumar Pradhan (1943–1974) was one of Darjeeling’s most gifted lyricists, composers, and mandolin virtuosos, shaping the golden era of modern Nepali music. Born on 4 May 1943, he grew up in a culturally vibrant Darjeeling and taught himself banjo, harmonium, and mandolin with remarkable mastery. A science graduate from St. Joseph’s College, he later taught at St. Robert’s School, where he also composed the school anthem. A student of maestro Amber Gurung, Saran emerged as a leading figure of Adhunik music alongside Aruna Lama, whom he married in 1963. Their partnership produced timeless classics such as “Yaha Ful Nakhili Cha,” “Sabaile Bhanthe,” “Hera Na Hera Kancha,” and many others. His music club Sangeet Sangam became a creative hub that nurtured Darjeeling’s finest talents. Saran passed away in 1974 at just 31, leaving behind a luminous body of work that continues to define Nepali musical heritage.