Pradeep Joshi

Shila Bahadur Moktan is a veteran Nepali music director, arranger, composer, and multi‑instrumentalist, celebrated for more than five decades of contribution to Nepali music. He is regarded as one of the most respected figures in modern and folk‑influenced Nepali music, known for his refined arrangements, melodic sensibility, and mastery of multiple instruments.Born and raised in Darjeeling, he received formal classical training under J.C. Rai, which shaped his foundation as a composer and instrumentalist. His first recorded song, “Aakha Kahile Najudos,” was broadcast on All India Radio, Kurseong, in the 1980s .Shila Bahadur Moktan has contributed to over 1,200 songs, working as a composer, arranger, and instrumentalist across genres ranging from folk to adhunik Nepali music. His notable early works include folk songs such as “Hoina Maile Dhakeko Badulki Lageko” and “Topi Hataile Bunera,” and the modern classic “Kahile Kahi Malai Pani Herideuna Pharkera,” a song that introduced both Kunti Moktan (vocals) and Shila Bahadur (music) to the Nepali music scene .He is married to legendary singer Kunti Moktan, and together they are considered pillars of Nepali music. Their daughters Subani Moktan and Shital Moktan are also successful musicians, continuing the family’s artistic legacy .After retiring from Music Nepal, Shila Bahadur initially planned to step back from active work, but his passion for music kept him fully engaged in composing, arranging, and performing. He continues to appear in concerts, including the Paleti Series, where he performs his own compositions and vocals .With nearly 50 years in music, he remains an influential figure whose arrangements, compositions, and instrumental work have shaped generations of Nepali music lovers.

Nukul Singh Gurung is a passionate and experienced Nepali musician, bass guitarist, and recordist known for his versatility in live performance, ensemble leadership, music education, and studio recording. Active across television, digital platforms, and international touring circuits, he has built a strong reputation as a dependable and musically sensitive performer.Gurung has played a key role in multiple seasons of Nepal’s biggest reality shows, including The Voice of Nepal and Nepal Idol, where his bass guitar work and musical direction have contributed significantly to the shows’ live arrangements. His involvement in TV‑based and YouTube‑based music productions, along with his experience in professional recording arts, has made him a sought‑after musician among leading bands, composers, and production houses.

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.

Asta Lama is a Nepali music composer known for his contribution to modern Nepali music and film soundtracks. He has established himself as a creative force in composition, blending contemporary musical elements with Nepali melodies.He is the Chairman of the Music Composers Association Nepal, playing a significant role in promoting and supporting music composers across the country.As a composer, Asta Lama has worked on various musical projects, including songs like “Ramri Pani Bhaki Chhu” from the film Dulahi, showcasing his ability to create emotionally engaging and commercially appealing music.Beyond composition, he is actively involved in strengthening Nepal’s music industry through leadership, collaboration, and advocacy for composers. His work reflects a commitment to evolving Nepali music while preserving its artistic identity.