Urgen Moktan

Ustad Asha Gopal was a respected classical vocalist from Kathmandu and the father of Swor Samrat Narayan Gopal. He was deeply involved in the devotional music culture of New Road, Kilagal, and surrounding temple areas, where he regularly led and participated in bhajan–kirtan traditions. During Narayan Gopal’s childhood, Ustad Asha Gopal often took him along to these bhajan mandalis, where the young Narayan accompanied the ensemble on basic instruments, absorbing classical discipline and devotional musical structure from an early age.Although formal recordings of Ustad Asha Gopal have not been found, his influence is widely acknowledged in oral histories. His grounding in classical and devotional music shaped the early musical environment that nurtured Narayan Gopal’s sense of melody, discipline, and vocal purity. Researchers consider him an important figure in Kathmandu’s traditional music circles of the early 20th century.

Praveen Gurung (लोक गायक स्वः प्रविण गुरुङ) was a talented Nepali Lok Dohori singer known for his soulful voice, powerful stage presence, and deep connection to folk culture. He dedicated his musical journey to preserving and promoting authentic Nepali lok geet, earning respect from audiences across the country. His songs often reflected themes of love, struggle, rural life, and cultural identity, making him a beloved figure in the folk community. Praveen’s popular songs include “Jhyamma Jhyamma,” “Sali Ramro Pareki,” “Badhyau Ki Maya,” “Aankha Ko Nindra,” “Kanchi Hou Kanchi,” and “Tadha Tadha,” which helped him gain wide recognition and admiration. Through his music, he created a lasting legacy that continues to inspire fellow artists and listeners even after his untimely passing. He is remembered as a humble, passionate, and influential voice in Nepali folk music.

Sukmit Gurung, originally Sukmit Ongmu Lepcha, is a Nepali singer known for her contributions to modern classical Nepali music. She was born in Gangtok, Sikkim, and later settled in Nepal. Her musical journey began when she won a voice contest organized by Radio Nepal, which helped her establish herself in the Nepali music industry. She debuted in Ambar Gurung's musical play "Malati Mangale", and her first recorded song was "Sunchadi Bhanda Mahango", a duet with Om Bikram Bista. Some of her most popular songs include "Priyatam", "Relimai", "Pal Pal", and "Dhoka Dieu Timile". She has sung over 400 songs, collaborating with renowned musicians like Gopal Yonzon, Ambar Gurung, and Sambhujeet Baskota. Beyond Nepali music, she has also performed in Newari and Japanese and represented Nepal in the ABU Golden Kite WSF 1990, an international music festival. She has contributed to charity performances in Nepal and abroad and worked as an assistant music director at Nepal Pragya Prathisthan, a government organization promoting Nepali literature, music, and culture.

Ganesh Rasik is a well-known Nepali singer, musician, author, and social worker. He has made significant contributions to Nepali music and literature, particularly during the 'Ralfa' era, which played a crucial role in shaping modern Nepali music. Before joining 'Ralfa,' Rasik was more focused on writing, but his involvement in the movement made him inseparable from music. Later, he was also associated with 'Lekali,' another influential music group. Some of his popular songs include: Rato Bhale (with Hiranya Bhojpure) Timraa Sapanaahru Saaili Mero Atit Antaraal I & II Apart from music, Rasik has authored several literary works, including Kshitizlai Chhuna Khojda and Dusgajaamaa Ubhiyera Swaadhintaako Pida. His contributions have earned him numerous honors, such as the Gorkha Dakshin Baahu and Ratnashree Swarna Padak.