Seema Sangraula

Master Mitrasen Thapa Magar (1895–1946) was a pioneering Nepali folk singer, dramatist, social reformer, and cultural ambassador whose work laid the foundation for organized Nepali folk performance. Born in Bhagsu, Dharamshala, he served in the Gurkha Regiment before dedicating his life to music, theatre, and community upliftment. He performed widely across India and Nepal, including Kathmandu Durbar, where he presented folk songs, dramas, and shamanic‑influenced performances, earning high recognition and public felicitation. His mission was to preserve Nepali identity among diaspora communities through art, discipline, and cultural pride. Master Mitrasen recorded seven gramophone discs in Calcutta, a rare achievement for a Nepali artist of his era. Out of his 63 known compositions, 23 songs survive in recorded form. In 1942, he wrote “Buddhvaani” in Nepali to spread messages of peace, compassion, and social harmony. He passed away in 1946 while on a cultural tour, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire Nepali folk musicians worldwide.

Brata Gandarva, a renowned folk singer and Sarangi player, was born on 25th Poush, 2043 BS, in Jarayotar, Palpale, Bhojpur. She is the fourth daughter of Dambar Gandharba and Chija Maya Gandharba. Growing up in a large family with two brothers and six sisters, Brata's childhood was marked by a deep connection to music, especially Sarangi. Her father, a professional Sarangi player, and her mother, who also played the instrument, were her primary sources of inspiration. Though Brata was initially shy and quiet as a child, her love for Sarangi and singing gradually grew as she accompanied her mother around the village, performing and learning the traditional craft. The family's financial struggles further motivated Brata to continue the musical tradition, as it was both a means of sustenance and a way of life. Education and Musical Journey: Unlike many musicians, Brata didn’t receive formal schooling during her early years in the village. However, her connection with music was solidified when she met Gopal Siwakoti Chintan, a renowned figure who inspired her to pursue formal education and music training. Upon moving to Kathmandu, Brata joined Tri-Ratna Cooperative School, where she completed her S.L.C. and later went on to study at Lalit Kala Campus, earning her I.A. degree. She is currently in her B.A. 2nd year at the same institution. Her musical journey began under the mentorship of her parents, with her father being a significant influence on her playing technique. After moving to Kathmandu, she continued her training at Nepal Sangh Vidhalaya, under the guidance of Shyam Nepali, and started recording her songs in Music Nepal around 2053 BS. Brata’s contributions to folk music extend beyond her own performances; she is also a dedicated teacher, sharing her knowledge of Sarangi with students six days a week at various institutions.

Kandara Band, also known simply as Kandara, is a musical group from Pokhara, Nepal. The band formed in 1994 and takes its name from the Nepalese word for “a gorge or a cave in the middle of remote hills or mountains.” They have been instrumental in establishing the folk-pop genre within the Nepalese music industry. Some of their popular songs include: “Lekaki Hey Maya”: A soulful track that resonated with listeners. “Hongkong Pokhara”: This song gained fame beyond Pokhara and Nepal, becoming popular among migrant Nepalese worldwide. “Tagaroma Rumal Rakhi”: A hit that rejuvenated the band after an 8-year break. Kandara collaborates with renowned Nepalese poets and lyricists to create meaningful lyrics. Their music emphasizes themes of nationalism, love, and nature. Recently, they made a comeback with the album featuring the popular song “Bhedi Gothaima”. 🎵🌟 If you’d like to explore their music, you can find it on platforms like Spotify or Apple Music. 🎶

Udesh Shrestha is a Nepali pop singer, music composer, songwriter, music arranger & background scorer. Born in Dhulikhel, Kavrepalanchok Nepal, he was the fifth child of Ram Pyari Shrestha and Ram Shrestha.