Hemanta Rasaily

Arbic Shahi Khadgi is a Nepali freelance musician, keyboardist, performer, music composer, songwriter, and music arranger known for his involvement in live shows, studio sessions, and collaborative contemporary music. Active in recent years, he contributes melodic arrangements, harmonic progressions, and modern keyboard textures across concerts, events, digital music, and production projects. His versatility across composition, songwriting, and arrangement makes him a dynamic presence in Nepal’s evolving music scene.

Kiran Nepali, a renowned Sarangi player from Nepal, is a member of the folk band Kutumba. He is a third generation Sarangi player in his family, and explains that he is greatly influenced by his grandfather, father and uncles, who were all Sarangi players of their times.

Ashesh Dangol, often hailed as the “Himalayan Hendrix,” is a trailblazing Nepali blues-rock guitarist, singer, and composer whose electrifying performances have earned him international acclaim. The nickname was bestowed upon him during his 2010 European tour by the Norwegian and German press, recognizing his fiery guitar style reminiscent of Jimi Hendrix. He is the frontman of the band Ashesh and Nekhvam, which fuses traditional Nepali sounds with blues and rock, creating a unique sonic identity that bridges East and West. His music often carries themes of peace, cultural pride, and social consciousness. Ashesh has performed at major festivals and venues across Europe, the U.S., and Asia, representing Nepal on global stages. His live shows are known for their raw energy, soulful improvisation, and deep-rooted connection to both blues traditions and Nepali heritage.

Ram Thapa (1958–2008) was a pioneering Nepali folk singer, music director, and Radio Nepal presenter known for his humorous and socially conscious songs. Born in Kamalpokhari, Kathmandu, he began his musical career in 1974 and became a 7th Grade Music Director at Radio Nepal. He sang over 150 folk songs and directed music for more than 200, with hits like Thok Na Madal Thok, Timi Yesai Lajayau, and Ritu Haruma Timi, which was ranked 7th by BBC in 2003. He was the first to publish Nepali music books with lyrics and chords, contributing to music education. Ram Thapa also served as a judge on Nepali Tara I & II, mentoring young talent. He passed away in 2008 due to liver disease.