Norden Tenzing

Suraj Pandit is a powerful voice from Jumla, Nepal, known for his evocative songwriting, soulful singing, and socially conscious music direction. Born on February 23, 1991, in Maliabid-4, Chandannath Municipality, he rose to prominence with the viral hit “Railko Bato”, a song that poignantly captures the struggles of life in Karnali and the stark contrast with urban privilege. His music often blends folk and contemporary styles, with lyrics that challenge inequality and celebrate resilience. Suraj writes, composes, and performs many of his songs, including “Singha Durbar”, “Maya Basyo Jumla Bazaarma”, and “Tamra Manma”. Despite early hardships and working as a forest guard, he pursued music relentlessly, earning accolades like the Bindhyabasini Music Jury Award, Rara National Music Award, and Radio Kantipur’s Best New Singer.

Devendra Bablu (देवेन्द्र बब्लु) is a rising Nepali singer, songwriter, and performer known for his emotionally resonant lyrics and catchy melodies that blend modern pop with folk influences. He’s gained popularity through both solo releases and collaborations under the banner of The Firantee and Black Light Pictures.  

Shakti Ballav Shrestha is a distinguished Nepali music composer and singer, renowned for his significant contributions to the country's music industry. Early Life and Education: Born on February 5, 1959, in Charikot, Dolakha, Nepal, Shakti Ballav is the son of Laxmi Kumar Shrestha and Khadga Kumari Shrestha. He pursued a Bachelor's degree in Economics from Trichandra College, Kathmandu. His musical education was under the tutelage of the late Chetnath Sharma, specializing in Eastern Classical Music. Musical Career: Shakti Ballav commenced his journey in music composition in 1975 (2032 B.S.). His first recorded piece aired on Radio Nepal in 1978 (2035 B.S.), featuring lyrics by Dr. Dirgha Singh Bam and vocals by Pratap Adhikari. Over the years, he has been associated with numerous albums, including: Pidhi Maya Ko Yam Ajambari Anuvuti Lakh Badhai Halkaara Prastav Pratibadha Maya Ko Rang Parichaye His compositions have resonated deeply with audiences, leading to his designation as a Prestigious Musician by Radio Nepal. Notable Songs: Shakti Ballav has crafted numerous songs that have become staples in Nepali music. Some of his notable compositions include: "Aafailai Bhar Bhayo Jindagi" performed by Rabin Sharma "Chandrama Ra Chakewako Milan" by Pabitra Subba "Udhu ki Gudu ma" by Kabita Krishna Murti "Ukali Orali Gardai" by Sonu Nigam "Phool Ko Dali Dalima" by Sonu Nigam & Purnima "Lagchha Mana Herirahu" by Ananda Karki "Tyo Sano Gaunko" by Thupten Bhutia "Sarangi Ta Rete Pani" by Shishir Yogi Awards and Recognition: Throughout his illustrious career, Shakti Ballav has been honored with several awards, reflecting his impact on Nepali music: Narayan Gopal Yuwa Puraskar (2052 B.S.) Chhinnalata Sangeet Puraskar (2053 B.S.) Music Nepal Award (2053 B.S.) – Gold Medal Narayan Gopal National Pratibha Puraskar (2058 B.S.) Hits FM Music Award (2067 B.S.) Natikaji Bishesh Sangeet Honor (2070 B.S.) Film Contributions: Beyond albums and singles, Shakti Ballav has made notable contributions to Nepali cinema as a music director and playback singer. His collaborations with actor Dhiren Shakya in films such as Deurali (1998), Rajkumar (1998), Zameen (1998), and Simana (1996) highlight his versatility and influence in the film industry. Shakti Ballav Shrestha's dedication and artistry have left an indelible mark on Nepali music, inspiring generations and enriching the nation's cultural heritage.

Om Bahadur Sunar, popularly known as Om Sunar, is a distinguished Nepali playback singer, composer, and music producer renowned for his contributions to Nepali folk and classical music. Born on March 16, 1987, in Surkhet, Nepal, he has been a prominent figure in the Nepali music industry since 2009. Early Life and Education Om Sunar hails from a middle-class family in Surkhet, Nepal. He pursued his passion for music academically, completing a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Tribhuvan University. He is currently advancing his studies with a master's degree in music at the same institution. Musical Career Om Sunar's musical journey commenced with his debut song "Maga Maga Timi K Magchhau Dinchhu Timi Lai Je Magchhau," featured in his first album "Sugandha." Over the years, he has recorded more than 250 songs in both Nepali and Hindi languages. His notable tracks include "Sapne Jo Maine," "Supari Kancho," "Aamaile Bhanthe," "Chandrama Jhai Ramri," "Bariko Patama," "Lahure Sipahi Dai," "Darling," "Adhuro Chhu Ma Timi Bina," and "Buddha Born In Nepal. "Beyond singing, Om Sunar has showcased his versatility by composing and arranging music for over three dozen Nepali films and albums. His expertise spans various genres, with a particular emphasis on folk and classical music. Awards and Honors Om Sunar's exceptional talent has been recognized with numerous awards, including: Best Singer Male at the 3rd Pim Nepal Film Festival (2020) for "Darling" Best Singer of the Year Male (Folk Pop) at the 4th Sagarmatha Music Award (2022) for "Lahure Sipahi Dai" Best Folk Pop Singer (Jury) at the Natyashwor Music Award (2023) for "Columbus Ki Kanchhi" Best Playback Singer at the 4th Nepal Music & Fashion Award (2023) for "Adhuro Chhu Ma Timi Bina" Best Duet Singer at the National Box Office Teej Music Award (2022) for "Bariko Patama" Best Pop Singer at the 3rd Himalayan International Award (2023) for "Yo Man" In addition to these accolades, he has received several honors, such as the National Singer Honor (2020, 2024), Artist & Creator Honor (2022), National Bilakshan Talent Honor (2023), National Film Culture Ratna Honor (2023), National Personality & Talent Honor (2023), Youth Singer Honor (2023), and Spiny Babbler Musicworker Honor (2023). Leadership and Contributions Om Sunar is actively involved in the development of the Nepali music industry. He serves as the President of the Music Research and Development Forum Nepal (MRDF Nepal) and holds honorary memberships in the Film Artists’ worker's Organization Nepal (FAWON) and the Music Video Directors’ Guild Nepal. His commitment to nurturing talent is evident through his role as a judge in various national and international music competitions.