Vishal Bhattarai

Babina Kiratee (also known as Babina Rai) is a Nepali singer, performer, and visual artist known for her expressive voice and fusion of folk and contemporary music. Originally from eastern Nepal, she gained recognition with her debut album Morning in the Beginning, featuring songs like Chari Bhaye Mathi Mathi, Saila, and Tadha Thiye. She is the playback singer for Chhadke Salam (with Kali Prasad Baskota & Nischal Basnet) and BEHULI from MEGHAULI, where her vocals drive the narrative. Babina has also appeared in music videos like Meri Mayalai and Paicho Mage. Her work, featured on Music Nepal and OSR Digital, reflects deep cultural roots and a commitment to storytelling through sound and image.

Hari Prasad Rimal is honored as one of the foundational figures of Nepali performing arts, celebrated for his pioneering contributions to theatre, music, and cinema. Widely recognized as Nepal’s first radio singer, he recorded Mero Mann Ma Timro for Radio Nepal in 1951, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s broadcasting and musical culture. Rimal was also a prominent stage actor and later transitioned into film, appearing in early Nepali classics such as Aama (1964). His expressive performances, disciplined craft, and commitment to artistic excellence helped shape the identity of modern Nepali acting. Over his long career, he received multiple honors acknowledging his influence on theatre, music, and the evolution of Nepal’s cultural landscape

Born on April 14, 1977, in Byasi, Bhaktapur, she is the eldest daughter of Krishna Bdr Rajchal and Purna Kesari Rajchal. Growing up in a musically inclined family, she was inspired by her father’s love for the harmonium. Her musical journey began early—by class four, she was already performing in school programs and learning harmonium under Hari Prasad Bati. She completed her schooling at Prabhat English Boarding School and Sharda Secondary School, and later earned a bachelor’s degree from Lalit Kala Campus. Her passion for music led her to Rabindra Bharati University in Kolkata, where she earned a second bachelor's degree, followed by a master’s degree at Lalit Kala Campus upon her return to Nepal. She also holds a vocal diploma from Pragya Sangeet Samiti, Allahabad. During her studies in India, she had the opportunity to perform with an orchestra group on Rabindranath Tagore’s birthday, a turning point that helped shape her musical identity. It was in college that she discovered the sitar, an instrument that would become her primary medium of expression. Her professional career officially began in 2004 with the recording of her first song. In 2005, she released her debut album, "The Tradition", and followed it with "Talking Strings" in 2012, showcasing her evolving artistry and mastery of the sitar. Between these releases, she actively toured cities across Nepal and India, including Nepalgunj, Pune, Jharkhand, Nagpur, and Kolkata, bringing her music to diverse audiences. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to classical music and a lifelong dedication to preserving and sharing its beauty through performance and education.

Situ Kharel is a promising artist and singer who has carved a significant niche in modern Nepali music. Based in London, UK, she continues to contribute with unwavering passion and dedication, enriching the landscape of contemporary Nepali music with her soulful voice and heartfelt compositions. Early Life and Inspiration Born in Kathmandu as the youngest daughter of two celebrated Nepali singers, Kalyan Rimal and Viju Rimal, Situ grew up in a home surrounded by music. Her childhood was filled with the sounds of classical ragas and practice sessions, nurturing a deep, unspoken love for music. Although she remained quietly passionate about music during her early years, it was only after marriage—and with the immense encouragement from her in-laws—that her musical journey began in earnest. As she once shared in an interview, “I feel there is nothing you can’t do if you have the will power.” This belief has been the guiding force behind her career. Musical Journey Situ debuted in the Nepali music scene in 2000 with the song “Jaba Timro Aakha Hasi Dinchha”, composed by Nhyoo Bajracharya and penned by Kiran Kharel. The same year, she released her first album Smarika, named after her beloved daughter who suffers from a neurological disorder. Situ considers her music as a voice for her daughter, who is unable to speak—a powerful and emotional anchor for her artistry. Over the years, she released four more solo albums: Simrik (2001) Pari (2004) Nirman (2005) Situ (2008) Her fourth album, Nirman, stood out for its distinctive style and deeper substance, showcasing her evolving artistry. Academic Pursuits in Music Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music (Honours) degree in Indian Classical Music at the prestigious Trinity College of Music in London, Situ continues to refine her craft. She has trained under legendary gurus such as Pundit Vishwa Prakash and Mrs. Chandrima Mishra, and earned a diploma in Indian Classical Music from Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, London. Her dedication to learning has led her to attend masterclasses with world-renowned maestros like Pandit Jasraj, Pandit Hari Prasad Chaurasia, Begum Parveen Sultana, Sri Ajoy Chakraborty, and others. Performances and Recognition Situ has performed extensively on stage across Nepal, the United States, and the UK. A landmark moment in her career was Situ Night in London (2004), where she became one of the first Nepali female singers to perform solo for over two hours in a foreign country. She has also participated in the Croydon Music Festival and performed alongside esteemed Nepali musicians at various concerts and cultural events. Music Videos and Social Messages With around 10 music videos to her credit, Situ’s visual storytelling has been praised for its emotional depth and social consciousness. The title track from her album Pari, “Meri Pyari Chandrama”, is particularly cherished for its moving message on the need for greater love and care for children with disabilities. Ongoing Contributions and Vision Situ remains actively involved in cultural, social, and fundraising events within the Nepali diaspora community in London. She has supported initiatives such as Navajyoti Kendra and Doremi Music School in Kathmandu through both performances and donations. For Situ, music is not just a profession—it’s a form of worship. As she continues her journey, she aims to deepen her understanding of music and use her voice to inspire, heal, and uplift.