Samjhana Bhandari

Ram Thapa (1958–2008) was a pioneering Nepali folk singer, music director, and Radio Nepal presenter known for his humorous and socially conscious songs. Born in Kamalpokhari, Kathmandu, he began his musical career in 1974 and became a 7th Grade Music Director at Radio Nepal. He sang over 150 folk songs and directed music for more than 200, with hits like Thok Na Madal Thok, Timi Yesai Lajayau, and Ritu Haruma Timi, which was ranked 7th by BBC in 2003. He was the first to publish Nepali music books with lyrics and chords, contributing to music education. Ram Thapa also served as a judge on Nepali Tara I & II, mentoring young talent. He passed away in 2008 due to liver disease.

Ganga Rana was one of Nepal’s most influential voices in adhunik (modern) music, celebrated for her effortless singing style and her rare ability to perform both modern and folk songs with equal mastery. Her patriotic songs, emotional depth, and artistic versatility made her a defining figure in Nepal’s musical history. She was not only a singer but also a composer and lyricist, contributing significantly to the creative evolution of Nepali music.Born on Poush 9, 1996 BS in Rumjatar, Okhaldhunga, to Champa Singh Gurung and Chandra Devi Gurung Rana, she moved to Kathmandu at a young age with her elder sister and brother‑in‑law to pursue her education. However, her passion for music soon took precedence. While studying at Gaushala Adhar School, Chabahil, she actively participated in singing, dancing, and acting—laying the foundation for her artistic journey.Ganga Rana recorded her first song at Radio Nepal at age 14, and by 2010 BS, she was working there professionally. Her breakthrough moment came during the coronation of King Mahendra, where her performance captivated the entire audience. In 2011 BS, she gained national and international attention after singing a patriotic song to welcome Chinese Prime Minister Chou En‑lai during his visit to Nepal.She married Nur Pratap Rana in 2018 BS, and they had three children—sons Kundan Pratap and Amir Pratap, and daughter Rakshya Rana, who later became Nepal’s first female pilot.Throughout her career, Ganga Rana earned numerous honors:Gold Medal for acting from Nepal Rastriya Pustakalaya (2016 BS)2nd place in Radio Nepal’s Adhunik Singing Competition (2019 BS)1st place in the same competition (2020 BS)Awarded by King Mahendra for winning again in 2023 BSHonored for acting by the Cultural Association (2030 BS)Shree Panch Birendra Subharajyabhishek Padak (2031 BS)In 2049 BS, her husband established the Nurganga Puraskar Guthi in her memory, honoring artists from Lumbini every year.

Dwarika Lal Joshi is a respected Nepali folk singer known for his powerful, earthy vocal style and his contribution to preserving authentic Nepali lok‑geet. He first gained national recognition as one of the early recording voices of the iconic folk tune Resham Firiri, helping bring traditional melodies into mainstream listening. Joshi’s heartfelt delivery in songs like Maiti Ghar Timro Haina and the lively Dhanga Maruni Bhamcha has strengthened his reputation as a singer deeply rooted in cultural storytelling. His music blends emotional depth with rural folk rhythms, making his work popular across generations. Through decades of dedication, Joshi has contributed significantly to documenting, performing, and promoting Nepal’s folk heritage on stage and in recordings.

Prakash Dutraj is a prominent Nepali Folk singer, songwriter, and music video director known for his contributions to the Nepali Lok Dohari music industry. He has gained significant recognition for his work in Lok Dohori, a traditional Nepali folk music genre. Career Highlights Popular Songs: Some of his notable songs include "Rimai," "Jam Bho Maili," and "Jun Maya". Music Videos: Prakash has directed and featured in numerous music videos, showcasing his versatility and talent. Collaborations: He has worked with various artists, including Melina Rai and Shanti Shree Pariyar