Navaraj Gurung

Hom Nath Upadhyaya is a renowned Nepali tabla maestro celebrated for his mastery of classical, semi‑classical, and folk rhythms. Trained in the rich traditions of Hindustani classical music, he became one of Nepal’s most influential percussionists, performing internationally and collaborating with leading artists. His contributions include teaching at Tribhuvan University, mentoring new generations of musicians, and representing Nepal on global stages. Known for his precision, melodic clarity, and deep understanding of rhythmic cycles, Upadhyaya has played a vital role in preserving and promoting Nepali classical music. His performances and compositions continue to inspire students, audiences, and cultural institutions across Nepal and the diaspora.

Dhrubesh Chandra Regmi is a celebrated sitar maestro, scholar, and academician from Nepal, known for his profound contributions to classical music and musicology. Born into the illustrious Regmi musical lineage, he is the great-grandson of Pt. Dev Chandra Regmi, who pioneered the sitar tradition in Nepal. Trained under his father, Prof. Satish Chandra Regmi, Dhrubesh began playing sitar at the age of eight and gave his first concert by thirteen. He holds a Ph.D. in Music from Delhi University—the first Nepali musician to do so—with a dissertation on the history of music during the Rana period. He also completed a postdoctoral Fulbright fellowship at the City University of New York on “Music for Peace and Harmony.” A founding member of the acclaimed ensemble Sukarma, Dhrubesh has performed globally and currently serves as a Professor at Padma Kanya Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University. His legacy bridges tradition, scholarship, and performance.

Born on April 14, 1977, in Byasi, Bhaktapur, she is the eldest daughter of Krishna Bdr Rajchal and Purna Kesari Rajchal. Growing up in a musically inclined family, she was inspired by her father’s love for the harmonium. Her musical journey began early—by class four, she was already performing in school programs and learning harmonium under Hari Prasad Bati. She completed her schooling at Prabhat English Boarding School and Sharda Secondary School, and later earned a bachelor’s degree from Lalit Kala Campus. Her passion for music led her to Rabindra Bharati University in Kolkata, where she earned a second bachelor's degree, followed by a master’s degree at Lalit Kala Campus upon her return to Nepal. She also holds a vocal diploma from Pragya Sangeet Samiti, Allahabad. During her studies in India, she had the opportunity to perform with an orchestra group on Rabindranath Tagore’s birthday, a turning point that helped shape her musical identity. It was in college that she discovered the sitar, an instrument that would become her primary medium of expression. Her professional career officially began in 2004 with the recording of her first song. In 2005, she released her debut album, "The Tradition", and followed it with "Talking Strings" in 2012, showcasing her evolving artistry and mastery of the sitar. Between these releases, she actively toured cities across Nepal and India, including Nepalgunj, Pune, Jharkhand, Nagpur, and Kolkata, bringing her music to diverse audiences. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to classical music and a lifelong dedication to preserving and sharing its beauty through performance and education.

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.