Nirnaya NSK

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.

Shyam Karki is a Nepali singer, songwriter, and performer best known for his romantic ballads and emotionally resonant vocals. He rose to prominence with the 2016 hit “Timro Mayale Badhera Rakha”, a soulful love song that became a defining track in his career. The song, composed by Birat Kadariya with lyrics by Rabi Malla and arrangement by Almoda Rana Uprety, has garnered over 8 million views on YouTube. Beyond this signature hit, Shyam has continued to release music that blends heartfelt storytelling with melodic pop and modern arrangements. His discography includes: “Kalpana Ko Kura” (2024) – a 4-song EP exploring themes of dreams and longing “Suni Hera Dilko Dhadkan” – a romantic single released in 2021 “Samhalda Samhaldai” – a duet with Swostika Dhakal, showcasing his softer vocal tone “Kaha Gayau Mayalu Mero” – a lyrical collaboration with Salina BK and Birat Kadariya

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. 🎶

Bhutukkai Khutrukkai” is a lively and energetic song performed by Nirajan Kadel, brought to life through the lyrical collaboration of Sanjog Gautam and Bimal Sharma Kandel, with music composed by Gautam himself. The arrangement by Udayraj Poudel gives the track its rhythmic charm, while the vocal recording by Biplav Adhikari at Melody Nepal Studio captures Kadel’s expressive delivery. The audio receives its final polish through the mix and master by Shyamswet Rasaili at Prism Studio, supported by mixing assistant Kiran Bishwakarma.The music video features Saroj Rana Praja and Aava Thapa, with Manoj Joshi serving as H.O.P. and Sarita Magar handling makeup. Visually, the project benefits from drone work by Surya Lama, cinematography by Faraj Arpan, and operative camera work by @Bishalthapaofficial. The editing and color grading by Dinson Shah enhance the video’s vibrant tone, while Dawa Bal Tamang’s choreography adds dynamic movement to the narrative. The entire production comes together under the direction of Ganesh Shahi, creating a visually engaging and musically memorable presentation.