Prabhat Lamichhane

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.

Manaraja Nakarmi is a Nepali musician and music director known for his extensive work in Nepal Bhasa, Nepali Aadhunik, Bhajan, and national songs. Active since the 2010s, he has composed and arranged music for numerous songs across genres, including Nepal Bhasa classics, modern Nepali pop, devotional Krishna and Buddha bhajans, and patriotic works. His credits include compositions for artists such as Mohan Shakya, Asha Nakarmi, Bishwo Nepali, Mira Rana, and Kumar Kancha, along with multiple self‑produced releases on his YouTube channel.

Hemant Rasaili (Kanchha) is a famous sarangi player of Nepal. He has been active in music since 2005. He is also a singer. He has performed in dozens of national and international music programs, studio recordings, reality shows and concerts.

Amrita Uprety is a gifted Nepali flautist and classical musician, known for her soulful performances and dedication to the bansuri (Indian bamboo flute). Originally from Nepal, she has been a residential disciple at Vrindaban Gurukul, the prestigious music school founded by Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia, for over 15 years. Her training under the legendary maestro has shaped her into one of the most promising female flautists in the Indian classical tradition. Amrita has performed at major cultural events such as the RFPA Holi Festival 2022, and has received accolades including the Girnar Festival Award and the Female Flautist Award from the Sundari Wadan Festival. Her music blends technical precision with emotional depth, captivating audiences across India and Nepal. She continues to represent Nepali talent on international stages, inspiring young musicians—especially women—to pursue classical music with passion and discipline.