Sundar Shrestha

Navneet Aditya Waiba is a Nepali folk singer, songwriter, and cultural researcher from Siliguri, West Bengal. She is the daughter of the late Hira Devi Waiba, the first professional Nepali folk singer. After her mother’s passing in 2011, Navneet left her career as a senior flight purser in Hong Kong to revive and preserve her family’s musical legacy. Together with her brother Satya Aditya Waiba, she launched the tribute album Ama Lai Shraddhanjali in 2017, re-recording her mother’s iconic songs using traditional instruments and arrangements. Navneet’s music focuses on authentic Nepali folk traditions, especially highlighting women’s voices and rural narratives. She collaborates with the Kathmandu-based folk band Kutumba and continues to perform across South Asia. Navneet is widely respected for her commitment to cultural preservation and her efforts to inspire younger generations to reconnect with their roots through music.

Hiranya Bhojpure is a respected Nepali singer, musician, and writer, known for his contributions to folk and modern Nepali music. He was born in Deurali, Bhojpur and became a household name through his work with the Lekali music group, alongside artists like Ganesh Rasik and Urmila Shrestha. His music often reflects themes of Nepali identity, nature, and social issues. Some of his popular songs include: Rato Bhale (with Ganesh Rasik) Lahara Pahara Chhahara Ko Desh Tyamka Daanda Hara Hara Mahadev Paani De Mero Atit Ek Anjuli Ghaam (Album) Bhojpure was also a poet and writer, incorporating his hometown into his artistic identity. His work helped shape Nepali music by blending traditional elements with modern storytelling.

Kalyan Sherchan was a Nepali folk singer and composer known for his contribution to lok‑geet and traditional Nepali music. His works, many of which were broadcast through Radio Nepal, reflect the emotional storytelling and melodic simplicity that define classic Nepali folk traditions. Sherchan wrote and composed songs such as “Mai Dukhilai Ja Basyo Ui Ramro” and contributed to several lok‑geet recordings that remain popular in rural and urban Nepali communities. His music continues to be covered by contemporary artists, preserving his legacy as a respected figure in Nepal’s folk music heritage. Sherchan passed away on 7 February 2011.

Laboni Chakraborty is a talented Nepali classical singer originally from Kolkata, India. She has made a significant impact on Nepal’s contemporary classical music scene, captivating audiences with her soulful renditions. She is also a judge on the Mero Voice Universe talent show.  Early Life & Education Laboni Chakraborty grew up in a musical family, where her father and relatives were singers. She began learning music at the age of five under the guidance of Baishali Juardhar. Later, she trained under Ajoy Chakrabarty, a renowned Hindustani classical vocalist, for ten years. She pursued her academic degree in music at Rabindra Bharati University, where she was a gold medalist in her master’s program. Career & Contributions Despite her strong musical foundation in India, Laboni Chakraborty chose to work in Nepal, where she has become one of the most respected classical singers. She teaches music at Lalit Kala Campus, Tribhuvan University, and runs her own music school, Raagrup, where she mentors aspiring musicians. She has performed in various prestigious events, including the Yalamaya Classic, where her rendition of Vilambit and Madhya Khayal in Raag Todi received a standing ovation. Popular Works Laboni Chakraborty has released several classical and contemporary songs. Some of her notable performances include: "Dhuwa Dhulo" – A song released in 2024 "Raag Puriya Kalyan" – A classical vocal performance. "Yo Jindagi" – A song released in 2024