Anju Upreti

Chandra Raj Sharma was a prominent Nepali musician and composer, celebrated for his contributions to classical and modern Nepali music. Born on Falgun 24, 2000 BS (1943 AD) in Maitidevi, Kathmandu, he was the son of Sangeet Shiromani Yagya Raj Sharma, who introduced him to classical music. Chandra Raj Sharma pursued formal education in music, earning a Bachelor of Music degree from Prayag Sangeet Samiti, Allahabad, and later a Bachelor of Commerce degree. Throughout his career, he composed music for over 350 modern songs and sang more than 50. He gained fame for his work in Giti Natak (musical dramas) such as "Muna Madan," "Bhrikuti," and "Shree Krishna Lila," as well as Nepali movies like "Kumari" and "Jiwan Jyoti." He also served as a music teacher and held various positions in cultural institutions, including the Cultural Department of His Majesty's Government.

Phoebe Shrestha is a Nepali violinist known for her expressive bowing style, refined classical technique, and ability to blend Western orchestral sensibilities with contemporary Nepali music. Active in studio sessions, live ensembles, and collaborative projects, she brings a warm, lyrical tone to film scores, acoustic arrangements, and cross‑genre performances. Her growing presence in Nepal’s modern music scene reflects both technical discipline and a distinctive emotional clarity in her playing.

Kiran Kandel is a skilled musician, singer, music arranger in Nepali music. He has been in music for over 25 years. Kiran, who passed the voice test from Radio Nepal in 2051 BS, he has so far given music in 400 songs and has arranged music in more than 5000 songs. He is also a skilled music instrumentalist.

Dashain and Malshree Dhun are deeply connected in Nepali culture. The sacred melody of Malshree is considered the musical soul of Dashain, and helping preserve this tradition is Nepal’s first and only female sarod player, Rupa Neupane. Rupa Neupane was born in Asar 2026 B.S. (1969 A.D.) in Mulpani, Kathmandu. She was married at the age of 12 in 2038 B.S. Despite early marriage and social responsibilities, her passion for music gradually found its way into her life. At the age of 24, in 2050 B.S. (1993 A.D.), she began learning the sarod, marking the beginning of her remarkable musical journey. She first trained under senior sarod maestro Mohan Sundar Shrestha in Kathmandu. Later, she continued her studies with Suresh Raj Bajracharya and further refined her skills under Dr. Anupama Kumari in India. Through dedication and continuous practice, she steadily established herself as a respected sarod instrumentalist. In a field traditionally dominated by men, Rupa Neupane broke barriers and created a historic identity as Nepal’s pioneering female sarod player. Her performances of Malshree Dhun during Dashain have strengthened the cultural connection between classical instrumental music and Nepal’s most celebrated festival. Today, she continues her journey as a committed sarod artist, inspiring women and young musicians across the country. Her life reflects perseverance, courage, and devotion to classical music, proving that passion and determination can overcome social and personal challenges.