Samriddhi Rai

Bimochana Lomjel is a rising voice in Nepali music, carrying forward the rich artistic legacy of her parents—composer Chandan Lomjel and singer Daisy Baraili. Born and raised in Darjeeling, Bimochana first captured national attention as a standout contestant on The Voice of Nepal Season 2, where her classical finesse and emotional depth set her apart. She debuted with the song “Timi” and has since released tracks like “Charke Najarle”, “Laijaw”, and “Maya Baiguni”. Her performances in the Paleti music series—especially renditions of “Lekheko Thiye Chithi” and “Kataa Kataa Bataasamaa”—highlight her poetic sensibility and vocal maturity. These songs were composed by her father and often feature lyrics by the late Norden Rumba, creating a beautiful intergenerational collaboration.

Navras Shrestha is the founder, lead vocalist, guitarist, lyricist, and composer of The Lakhey, Nepal’s pioneering Newa (Newari) metal band based in Kathmandu. Known for blending traditional Newar musical elements with the power and edge of metal, Navras has carved out a space for a truly indigenous and modern sound that speaks both to cultural identity and musical evolution. His first Newa metal song, Dhampa Tacha, was recorded in 2005—a bold and groundbreaking transformation of a Newa rap piece into a heavy, guitar-driven anthem that laid the foundation for what would become the Newa Metal genre. Over the years, Navras has created and performed a variety of original songs and covers that showcase his wide-ranging musicality. Tracks like Jeevan, Miss Julie (a fully home-recorded, arranged, mixed, and mastered song), and Ae Kancha (a duet cover with a female vocalist) reflect both his technical abilities and his emotional range as a musician. His reimagining of Malshree Dhun—a revered Newari and Nepali traditional piece—is particularly notable for incorporating Spanish and Indian Rajasthani techniques and a touch of Hindustani classical flavor with heavy drumming, giving the folk tune a new life in a contemporary soundscape. Navras’s musical curiosity extends beyond local traditions—he has embraced songs in foreign languages, including a Georgian piece (Erti Nakhavit by Chveneburebi), while also composing original works like Swagta Mu Hai Nheeaye in Nepal’s Thakali language. In 2022, Navras completed his Master of Fine Arts in Music with a focus on Hindustani Classical music. During this time, he developed a deep interest in songs from various ethnic and regional backgrounds of Nepal. Rather than simply studying them academically, Navras has immersed himself in the melodies, rhythms, and stories found in songs of Nepal Bhasa (Newar), Charya (ritual Buddhist music), Tharu, and Limbu and other indigenous languages. He is currently preparing to record and preserve these culturally significant pieces with modern arrangements—ensuring their continuity and relevance for future generations. His academic contribution is also noteworthy. For his master’s thesis, Navras conducted in-depth research on Dapha music (Asan Bajan Guthi). His thesis has since become a valuable resource for members of the Guthi and other musicians who are interested in traditional music. The work not only documented the artform but also shed light on the present condition and challenges faced by the community in keeping their musical heritage alive. While music is his core identity, Navras Shrestha is also a skilled Full Stack Web Developer by profession and currently works at GTA Nepal. His ability to balance a demanding tech career with an expansive artistic practice speaks to his discipline and creativity. In addition, he is deeply passionate about photography and videography. From capturing evocative model portraits to creative visual storytelling, his visual work complements his music, allowing him to express his artistry across multiple forms. Whether through metal riffs rooted in Newa culture, folk songs from across Nepal’s diverse communities, world music explorations, or visual compositions, Navras Shrestha stands out as a multi-talented, cross-disciplinary artist. He continues to inspire others not just with what he creates, but with how he connects deeply to culture, community, and creativity.

Kamala Sapkota is a renowned Nepali singer & Belly Dancer. She was born on Ashoj 16 in Garamani, Jhapa. She was interested in music since childhood and she also loved singing and dancing. She moved to Kathmandu and worked as a make-up artist for actors and actresses in Nepali films to make ends meet. She started her musical career from her album ‘Mausam, under the label of Reeyaz Music Company.

Prem Raja Mahat is a renowned Nepali folk singer, songwriter, and musician. Often referred to as the "Elvis of the Himalayas," he has made significant contributions to Nepali folk music since the late 1970s. Some of his timeless classics include Bajho Khet Ma, Paan Ko Paat, and Simsime Panima. He is also known for playing traditional Nepali instruments like the sarangi and madal. Born in Tanahun, Nepal, Prem Raja Mahat faced hardships early in life, losing both parents at a young age. Despite these challenges, he pursued his passion for music and became a celebrated artist. In 1996, he immigrated to the United States, where he continued to create music and even opened a Nepali restaurant in Baltimore