Babu Krishna Pariyar

Brata Gandarva, a renowned folk singer and Sarangi player, was born on 25th Poush, 2043 BS, in Jarayotar, Palpale, Bhojpur. She is the fourth daughter of Dambar Gandharba and Chija Maya Gandharba. Growing up in a large family with two brothers and six sisters, Brata's childhood was marked by a deep connection to music, especially Sarangi. Her father, a professional Sarangi player, and her mother, who also played the instrument, were her primary sources of inspiration. Though Brata was initially shy and quiet as a child, her love for Sarangi and singing gradually grew as she accompanied her mother around the village, performing and learning the traditional craft. The family's financial struggles further motivated Brata to continue the musical tradition, as it was both a means of sustenance and a way of life. Education and Musical Journey: Unlike many musicians, Brata didn’t receive formal schooling during her early years in the village. However, her connection with music was solidified when she met Gopal Siwakoti Chintan, a renowned figure who inspired her to pursue formal education and music training. Upon moving to Kathmandu, Brata joined Tri-Ratna Cooperative School, where she completed her S.L.C. and later went on to study at Lalit Kala Campus, earning her I.A. degree. She is currently in her B.A. 2nd year at the same institution. Her musical journey began under the mentorship of her parents, with her father being a significant influence on her playing technique. After moving to Kathmandu, she continued her training at Nepal Sangh Vidhalaya, under the guidance of Shyam Nepali, and started recording her songs in Music Nepal around 2053 BS. Brata’s contributions to folk music extend beyond her own performances; she is also a dedicated teacher, sharing her knowledge of Sarangi with students six days a week at various institutions.

Ustad Sahila, born (Asta Man Shrestha) in Asaar 1951, was a pioneering figure in Nepali folk‑based musical innovation. Known for introducing a fresh dimension to Nepali lok‑laya, he blended traditional rhythms with expressive vocal phrasing that made his songs deeply memorable. He trained in Kolkata under respected maestros Pandit Laxmikanta, Ustad Surya Mishra, and Ustad Shiva, gaining a strong classical foundation that shaped his unique style. In 1990 B.S., he recorded his songs in Kolkata, producing seven gramophone discs, a rare achievement for a Nepali artist of his era. His popular songs include “Kalo Theki Naran Kali Kathako”, which remains a beloved folk classic. Ustad Sahila passed away on Magh 15, 2013, leaving behind an important musical legacy.  

Prakash Dutraj is a prominent Nepali Folk singer, songwriter, and music video director known for his contributions to the Nepali Lok Dohari music industry. He has gained significant recognition for his work in Lok Dohori, a traditional Nepali folk music genre. Career Highlights Popular Songs: Some of his notable songs include "Rimai," "Jam Bho Maili," and "Jun Maya". Music Videos: Prakash has directed and featured in numerous music videos, showcasing his versatility and talent. Collaborations: He has worked with various artists, including Melina Rai and Shanti Shree Pariyar

Mira Rana (also known as Meera Rana) is a renowned Nepali singer who has made significant contributions to the Nepali music industry. Born on September 24, 1951, she has sung over 1,600 songs in her 55-year musical career. Mira Rana is considered a part of "Nepal's first wave of recording stars," recording folk, classical, and even pop songs during the country's modernization after the fall of the Rana regime. She has collaborated with artists like Narayan Gopal, Gopal Yonjan, Kumar Basnet, Udit Narayan Jha, and Ram Thapa. In addition to her musical career, Mira Rana has also been involved in politics. She joined the Rastriya Prajatantra Party Nepal in 2009 and contested for parliament from the Kathmandu-3 constituency in 2013. She was awarded the Narayan Gopal memorial prize in 2016, shared with Gyanu Rana, in recognition of her contribution to Nepali music.