Dhana Bahadur Gopali

Anju Upreti is a distinguished Nepali sitar artist, music educator, and academic dedicated to the promotion of Hindustani classical music in Nepal. She currently serves as the Head of the Central Department of Fine Arts (Music), Tribhuvan University, where she is actively involved in teaching, research, curriculum development, and the advancement of higher education in music.Driven by a passion for classical music from an early age, Upreti pursued advanced studies in India and earned a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Sitar from the Faculty of Performing Arts, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, one of South Asia's most prestigious institutions for classical music education. During her academic journey, she received rigorous training under the renowned Padma Shri Dr. Gopal Shankar Mishra and Professor Dr. Prahlad Nath Mishra, both respected exponents of the Banaras Gharana.After returning to Nepal, Anju Upreti joined Tribhuvan University as a lecturer and has played a significant role in strengthening music education through teaching, academic research, and mentoring young musicians. She regularly presents Sitar recitals, lecture-demonstrations, workshops, and seminars, contributing to the preservation and promotion of Hindustani classical music in Nepal.In addition to her university responsibilities, she is associated with Achyutram Bhandari Sangit Pratishthan (ARBM Academy) as a music instructor and mentor, where she helps train aspiring musicians and supports the academy's mission of promoting classical music through education, performances, and community outreach

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.

Pradeep Raj Pandey is a Nepali modern‑song vocalist known for his expressive singing style and recordings featured across Nepali audio labels and digital platforms. His notable songs include “Kina Aauchha Yaad,” “Kamjor Nasamjha,” and “Pathar Ko Mutu Banai,” which continue to circulate among Nepali listeners through radio, albums, and online music channels. His discography is also catalogued on AllMusic, reflecting his presence in the contemporary Nepali music scene. Although he maintains a low public profile, his recorded works have earned him recognition among modern Nepali music audiences.

Tilak Singh Pela is a revered name in Nepali classical and modern music, known for his soulful voice, deep-rooted classical training, and dedication to nurturing future generations of musicians. Born in Dashrathchand Municipality, Baitadi, in the Sudurpaschim Province of Nepal, Pela has spent over two decades enriching the Nepali music scene with his artistry and mentorship. Classical Music Journey Studied Indian classical music at Prayag Sangeet Samiti, Allahabad, India. Trained under Guru Debashish Dev and Pandit Dhana Bahadur Gopali. Founded Shree Krishna Gurukul Sangeet Pathshala in Banasthali, Kathmandu. As a music instructor and founder, he has mentored numerous young talents who now contribute actively to Nepali music. Highlights Over 20 years of contribution to Nepali classical and modern music. Established a music school (SKG) that has become a nurturing ground for emerging artists.