Pradeep Joshi

Gopal Yonjan (1943–1997) was a towering figure in Nepali music—an accomplished singer, lyricist, music director, arranger, flutist, and multi-instrumentalist. Born in Darjeeling, India, he began his musical journey with the flute, winning accolades as a young performer. His deep study of Nepali folk, Rabindra Sangeet, and classical traditions shaped a career that spanned over three decades and more than 2,000 compositions. Yonjan moved to Kathmandu in 1967 to pursue his MA in Nepali and taught music at prestigious schools while composing for Radio Nepal, Nepal Police Club, and films. His partnership with Narayan Gopal is considered the golden era of Nepali modern music. He was known for blending poetic depth with rich orchestration, often writing, composing, and arranging his own songs. His works spanned genres—patriotic, romantic, philosophical, spiritual, and children's music. He was honored with the Gorkha Dakshin Bahu, Chinnalata Song Award, and multiple Best Music Director titles. His legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and listeners.

The year 2004 introduced Moment of Bliss, the album that included the song Phul ko Akhaan Maa, which brought Ani Choying Drolma much acclaim. The song, written by Durga Lal Shrestha and composed by Nhyoo Bajracharya, went on to be one of the most played songs on media and one would be hard-pressed to find anybody in Kathmandu who hadn’t heard the tune. The song broke the monotony of the then popular music with its melody and easy flowing instrumentation and Ani’s soothing, almost meditative vocals. Although largely unrecognised by the public, Gopal Rasaily, the arranger of the song, also managed to gather appreciation for his work from others in the business; it represented a breakthrough for him in the Nepali music industry. Rasaily, who is also the in-house arranger at the Do Re Mi studio.

Karma Gyalchen Bomzan is a versatile Nepali singer, composer, and lyricist originally from Okayti Mirik, Darjeeling, West Bengal, India. He has been based in Kathmandu since 2010 and has contributed significantly to Nepali music over the past two decades. Career & Achievements Karma Gyalchen Bomzan has composed and sung over 500 songs, spanning genres like folk, romantic, and modern Nepali music. He has also worked as a playback singer for 10 Nepali movie songs, including Megha and Bindas-3. His music often reflects the lifestyle and culture of rural Nepali communities, making his work deeply relatable to audiences. Popular Songs Some of his most well-known songs include: "Baba Ko Topi" – A classic melody song. "Cheena Jana" – A modern pop song. "Aadha Timro Aadha Mero" – A romantic Nepali song. "Dhaka Topi" – A song celebrating Nepali identity. "Aaija Daiba" – A semi-classical song with deep meaning. Awards & Recognition Karma Gyalchen Bomzan has received multiple awards, including: Hits FM Music Awards (2004 & 2005) for ChinJan Vayay Pachhi. Radio Kantipur National Award (2019) for Baba Ko Topi. Tuborg Image Awards (2018, 2019, 2022) for best vocal and best composer.

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.