Anju Panta

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.

Megha Shrestha is a talented singer and artist known for her contributions to the Nepali music scene. She has garnered attention for her versatile vocal abilities, capturing a broad range of musical styles. Genres: Megha Shrestha's music often spans various genres, including pop, rock, classical, and Nepali folk music. Her ability to adapt to different musical styles has earned her a diverse fan base. Career: Megha Shrestha began her music career at a young age and has steadily built a reputation as one of Nepal's emerging vocal talents. She is known for her emotional delivery and powerful voice, making her a popular figure in both mainstream and indie music scenes. Notable Works: Megha Shrestha is recognized for several songs that have become popular in Nepal and among Nepali-speaking communities worldwide. Some of her tracks might feature elements of modern pop, while others may showcase her roots in Nepali folk and classical traditions. Musical Style: Megha’s music is characterized by her soulful voice and her ability to convey deep emotions through her performances. Her songs often touch on themes of love, loss, and self-reflection. Whether she is performing a traditional Nepali song or a contemporary hit, she brings a unique, heartfelt quality to her music. Awards & Recognition: Though specific awards might vary depending on her career progress, Megha has undoubtedly gained recognition and acclaim for her talent, with a growing fanbase both in Nepal and internationally.

Saroj Gopal Bajracharya was a prominent Nepali folk singer and cultural figure, celebrated for his contributions to the preservation and promotion of traditional Nepali music. Born in Pokhara, Nepal, he was deeply involved in the country's musical and broadcasting landscape.​ 🎶 Musical Career Bajracharya was renowned for his soulful folk songs that resonated with audiences across Nepal. His notable tracks include:​ "Ukali Orali Chadera" "Nakkalilai Bagailagyo Jhilkele" "Mayaluko Mohani Boli" One of his songs, "Deurali Ukali Chadhera," faced a temporary ban from Radio Nepal due to a controversial lyric. However, after Bajracharya presented the song to King Birendra, the ban was lifted, and the song regained its popularity. 📻 Broadcasting Contributions Beyond his singing career, Bajracharya played a pivotal role in Nepal's broadcasting sector. He was the founding station manager of Machhapuchhre FM, a Pokhara-based radio station, through which he furthered the reach of Nepali folk music. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Personal Life Saroj Gopal Bajracharya was married to the esteemed singer Baba Rana (बाबा राणा), forming a duo that significantly influenced Nepali music. He passed away at the age of 65 in Pokhara, leaving behind a rich legacy in the realm of Nepali folk music.

First entry in music: with children's song in Radio Nepal competition in 1985 First playback singing: ka bata kachhuwa chorus/ (movie- chot) First solo song: kasari samjhu ma( album-Bina Mausam ko Barsaat/1989) First solo album: Ragini (2003) No of songs: around 300 (nepali, newari, hindi, punjabi) No of album released: 22 First visualised Song: chithi pathauchhu (2003) Musical tours: -inside Nepal : Pokhara, Narayanghat, Nepalgunj, Solukhumbu, -outside Nepal: London,Bombay, Scotland, Switzerland,Beijing(china), Dubai Prizes won: Different prizes in cultural progrms by different organisations. NYC Celebrity singer of the Year 2006 in UK, Global motion picture award 2019 Dubai Recent released album: Revival(2014) Recently performed first solo program SUR SADHANA on magh 26 2076 at Sanskritik sansthan,nachghar, Jamal