Prakash Dutraj

Jhalakman Gandharva (झलकमान गन्धर्व) was a pioneering Nepali folk singer who popularized Gaine Geet, giving voice to Nepal’s marginalized Gandharbha community. Born on July 29, 1935, in Batulochaur, Pokhara, Jhalakman began singing at age nine, traveling village to village with his sarangi. He became the first Gaine artist to record songs, transforming oral traditions into mass media. His haunting ballads, especially “Aamale Sodhlin Ni”, mourned the death of Nepali soldiers abroad and resonated deeply across generations. Active from 1965 until his death in 2003, he recorded over 100 songs, blending folk and classical styles. His music preserved indigenous narratives and challenged caste-based exclusion, earning him national reverence. Jhalakman’s legacy lives on as a cultural bridge—his voice remains a symbol of dignity, sorrow, and resilience.

Hira Devi Waiba (1940–2011) was a pioneering Nepali folk singer whose voice became the soul of traditional Nepali music. Born in Ambootia, Darjeeling, she was the first artist to professionally record Nepali folk songs, including the first-ever Tamang Selo track “Chura ta Hoina Astura.” Her career spanned over four decades, during which she recorded more than 300 songs and worked with prestigious platforms like All India Radio, BBC, and His Master’s Voice. She was the first Nepali folk artist to be signed by Music Nepal and remains the only Grade A folk singer with All India Radio. Her timeless songs like “Phariya Lyaaidiyechan” and “Ramri Ta Ramri” continue to resonate across generations. After her passing in 2011, her children Navneet and Satya Aditya Waiba revived her legacy through the tribute project Ama Lai Shraddhanjali. Hira Devi Waiba remains a cultural icon and guardian of Nepali folk heritage.

Raj Rai is a rising Nepali singer hailing from Okhaldhunga, whose emotionally rich voice and heartfelt delivery first caught national attention during The Voice of Nepal Season 3. His memorable Blind Audition performance of “Panchi” by Pushpan Pradhan showcased his deep connection to Nepali melodies and earned him a loyal fan base. Beyond the television spotlight, Raj has continued to grow as a versatile folk and contemporary singer. He gained significant recognition through his involvement in the popular Purbeli Juhari song: “Besi Gaiko Goth” – Performed alongside Abhay Dhungel, Alina Rai, and Susmita Katwal, this culturally resonant song brings to life everyday stories from the eastern hills of Nepal, particularly from Mane Bhanjyang, Unbu, Waksa, and Udaypur. The song’s lively rhythm and nostalgic lyrics have made it a fan favorite on social platforms. Raj Rai’s style balances the power of traditional storytelling with modern arrangements, contributing to a new wave of Nepali music that feels both rooted and refreshing.

Kalyan Sherchan was a Nepali folk singer and composer known for his contribution to lok‑geet and traditional Nepali music. His works, many of which were broadcast through Radio Nepal, reflect the emotional storytelling and melodic simplicity that define classic Nepali folk traditions. Sherchan wrote and composed songs such as “Mai Dukhilai Ja Basyo Ui Ramro” and contributed to several lok‑geet recordings that remain popular in rural and urban Nepali communities. His music continues to be covered by contemporary artists, preserving his legacy as a respected figure in Nepal’s folk music heritage. Sherchan passed away on 7 February 2011.