Lok Bahadur Chhetri

Dharma Raj Thapa, honored with the title Jana Kabi Keshari, was a legendary Nepali folk singer and poet. Born in 1924 in Pokhara, Nepal, he became one of the most influential figures in Nepali folk music. His songs, such as Hariyo Danda Maathi and Nepali Le Maya Maaryo Barilai, captured the essence of Nepal’s landscapes and traditions. Thapa was not only a singer but also a poet and cultural historian. He collected and preserved folk songs, ensuring that Nepal’s musical heritage remained alive. His contributions earned him numerous awards, including the Madan Puraskar and Indrarajyalaxmi Puraskar. Some of his most popular songs include: Hariyo Danda Mathi – A classic folk song celebrating Nepal’s natural beauty. Nepali Le Maya Maaryo Barilai – A heartfelt song reflecting Nepali culture and emotions. Saili Rimai Chauri Gai – A traditional melody with deep cultural significance. Aaja Madal Bajeko Kina – A lively folk tune. Dhuru Dhuru Narou Aama – A song filled with emotion and nostalgia. Aai Pugyo Railaima – A well-loved song in Nepali folk music.

Ram Thapa (1958–2008) was a pioneering Nepali folk singer, music director, and Radio Nepal presenter known for his humorous and socially conscious songs. Born in Kamalpokhari, Kathmandu, he began his musical career in 1974 and became a 7th Grade Music Director at Radio Nepal. He sang over 150 folk songs and directed music for more than 200, with hits like Thok Na Madal Thok, Timi Yesai Lajayau, and Ritu Haruma Timi, which was ranked 7th by BBC in 2003. He was the first to publish Nepali music books with lyrics and chords, contributing to music education. Ram Thapa also served as a judge on Nepali Tara I & II, mentoring young talent. He passed away in 2008 due to liver disease.

Kalyan Sherchan was a Nepali folk singer and composer known for his contribution to lok‑geet and traditional Nepali music. His works, many of which were broadcast through Radio Nepal, reflect the emotional storytelling and melodic simplicity that define classic Nepali folk traditions. Sherchan wrote and composed songs such as “Mai Dukhilai Ja Basyo Ui Ramro” and contributed to several lok‑geet recordings that remain popular in rural and urban Nepali communities. His music continues to be covered by contemporary artists, preserving his legacy as a respected figure in Nepal’s folk music heritage. Sherchan passed away on 7 February 2011.

​Baba Rana (बाबा राणा) is a distinguished Nepali singer renowned for her melodious voice and significant contributions to Nepali music. Born in Palpa, Nepal, she moved to Pokhara at the age of one and was raised in a musically inclined family. Her father, Colonel Dhan Bikram Rana, and her uncles were instrumental in nurturing her musical talents. She began singing at the age of nine and recorded her first song, "Dam Dam Damphu Bajeko Talai Ma," in 1971 (BS 2028) for Radio Nepal. Throughout her career, Baba Rana has recorded over 2,000 songs across various genres, including folk, modern, devotional, opera, film, and ghazals. Her notable songs include:​ "Karodau Mutuharuko Eutai Dhukdhuki Nepal" "Saaiko Ghar Kaha Ho Kaha" "Birsijane Nisturi" "He Aama Janmayau Kina" "Chautarima Ma Base Holaki"​ In recognition of her contributions, she received the "Famous Class Singer" title from Radio Nepal in 2055 BS and has been honored with awards such as the Prabal Gorkha Dakshin Bahu IV and the Indra Rajya Laxmi Puraskar. Baba Rana's dedication to music continues as she resides in Pokhara with her family, engaging in musical pursuits and honoring the legacy of her late husband, singer Saroj Gopal Bajracharya. ​