Hari Karmacharya

Durga Prasad Khatiwada is a renowned Nepali bansuri (flute) maestro, educator, and cultural ambassador, originally from Ilam. A graduate of Banaras Hindu University with a Master’s in Flute (2003), he has performed in over 20 countries, representing Nepal at prestigious events—including during state visits by leaders like Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi. Khatiwada is a music officer at Rastriya Nachghar and has taught classical music at institutions like Lalit Kala Campus and Sirjana College of Fine Arts. He pioneered flute education in Nepal’s higher education system by developing formal curricula. His international teaching includes sessions in Norway, Sweden, Germany, and France. Inspired early on by Gopal Yonjan, Khatiwada has dedicated his life to promoting classical music as the foundation of all musical forms. His performances and teachings emphasize peace, discipline, and cultural identity, making him a vital figure in Nepal’s musical heritage.    

Tara Devi, revered as “The Nightingale of Nepal,” was one of the most influential and beloved voices in Nepali music. Born on 15 January 1945 in Indrachowk, Kathmandu, she began singing at Radio Nepal as a young teenager and soon emerged as the defining female voice of modern Nepali music. Over a career spanning four decades, she recorded more than 4,000 songs, ranging from modern melodies and patriotic anthems to devotional and folk compositions, shaping the emotional and cultural soundscape of an entire nation.Her voice—soft, expressive, and deeply emotive—became synonymous with Nepali identity. Songs like “Phool Ko Thunga,” “Udi Jaun Bhanne,” “Mann Ko Bandh,” “Bhimsen Thapa,” and countless others remain timeless classics, cherished across generations and the global Nepali diaspora. Tara Devi’s artistry elevated Nepali music to new heights, bringing refinement, dignity, and lyrical depth to the modern genre.In recognition of her extraordinary contribution, she received some of Nepal’s highest national honors, including the Jagadamba Shree Award (2050 B.S. / 1993 A.D.), the Indra Rajyalaxmi Pragya Puraskar, the Chhinnalata Puraskar, the Maina Puraskar, and the Nai Sur Samman. She was also decorated with the Prabal Gorkha Dakshin Bahu (First Class), the Mahendra Ratna Abhushan, the Gaddi Arohan Rajat Padak, and the Birendra Aishwarya Sewa Padak, along with numerous other national and international recognitions.Despite personal tragedies later in life, Tara Devi continued to embody grace, devotion, and artistic integrity. She passed away on 23 January 2006, leaving behind a monumental legacy that continues to inspire singers, musicians, and music lovers across the world. Her voice remains a cultural treasure—an enduring symbol of Nepal’s musical soul.

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.

Ramita Bhandari is a Nepali singer, model, and performer known for her expressive presence and versatile artistic journey. Once celebrated as a successful model, she worked across all major branches of modeling—music videos, television commercials, fashion shows, event hosting, and talent competitions—earning titles in more than a dozen talent shows. Her strong screen presence made her a familiar face on Nepali television, where she appeared in numerous music videos, advertisements, and programs.Ramita released her first solo album in 2058 BS (2001/2002 AD), marking her entry into the music industry. After a period away from the limelight, she made a notable comeback with the song “Black Handsome Boy”, written, composed, and sung by herself. Her ability to create music independently—writing lyrics, composing melodies, and performing—highlights her artistic depth and personal style.Throughout her career, Ramita has also been active in fashion shows, stage events, and media presentations, maintaining a strong connection with the entertainment field. Her return to music re‑established her identity as a singer with a unique voice and creative vision, reaffirming her place in the Nepali music and modeling industry.