Melina Rai

Preeti Kaur is a celebrated Nepali-Punjabi pop and R&B singer born on April 26, 1981, in Kathmandu, Nepal, to Indian-origin Sikh parents. Known for her soulful voice and genre-blending style, she began her musical journey in the late 1990s and gained national recognition after winning the Shikhar Beat Contest as Best Vocalist in 2003. Her debut song Jhan Jhan Badhyo marked the beginning of a prolific career in both solo and collaborative projects. In 2012, she made her Bollywood debut with the song Promises from the film Unforgettable. She has since released several popular tracks, including Chimlera Aakha, Timrai Lagi, and Rahar. Beyond music, Preeti also participated in Startup Weekend Kathmandu (2014), where her team’s eco-innovation project won first prize. With a career spanning over two decades, she remains a dynamic voice in Nepal’s contemporary music scene.

Born on December 11 in Kathmandu, Nepal, to Devendra Prasad Bhatta and Tara Devi Bhatta, Manzayashree Bhatta was raised in the Samakhusi area of Kathmandu. Despite having no formal musical training, she discovered her innate singing talent early on, considering it a divine gift. Her musical journey commenced in 2004 with the recording of her debut song, “Sinduri Sanjh Ma”, composed by her sister Anusha and penned by her brother Rajan. In 2005, she released her first album, “Magnet”, marking her official entry into the Nepali music industry. Her mother has been a significant source of inspiration throughout her musical endeavors. One of her notable songs, “Timlai Samjhiye”, gained popularity among listeners and media, further establishing her presence in the music scene. In 2024, Manzayashree achieved international recognition with the release of her single “Jhyain”, a collaborative Indo-Nepali fusion track featuring Bollywood singer Dev Negi. The song was showcased at Times Square in New York City, symbolizing a significant milestone in her career. The music video, directed by renowned cinematographer Binod Pradhan, was filmed at Mumbai's Imperial Palace and featured choreography by the acclaimed duo Bosco-Caesar. The track has garnered over 84.5 million views on YouTube, highlighting its global appeal .

The Shadows ‘Nepal’ is a hard rock band hailing from Narayangarh, Chitwan, Nepal. Established in 1997, they made their debut with the album “Suna Hamro Sano Awaaz”. Their second album, “Hidne Manche Ladcha”, achieved success in the Nepali market and earned them accolades for the best band, best music, and best performance in 2006. The band’s influential lyrics often touch on social issues and awareness. Their current lineup includes: Swapnil Sharma (Vocals) Prakash Rasaily (Guitars) Sujan Manandhar (Guitars) Sahil Risal (Drums) Amit Pradhan (Bass) Rupesh Sen served as their band manager for a significant period. Some of their notable songs include: “Naya Nepal” “Buddha Nepal Ko” “Prakriti” “Kun ho Hamro Dharma” “Swarga ma thau chaina” “Hidne manche ladcha” “Ma” “Suna Hamro Sano Awaz” The Shadows ‘Nepal’ has left a lasting impact on the Nepali rock scene, addressing societal issues through their music. 🎸

Jhalakman Gandharva (झलकमान गन्धर्व) was a pioneering Nepali folk singer who popularized Gaine Geet, giving voice to Nepal’s marginalized Gandharbha community. Born on July 29, 1935, in Batulochaur, Pokhara, Jhalakman began singing at age nine, traveling village to village with his sarangi. He became the first Gaine artist to record songs, transforming oral traditions into mass media. His haunting ballads, especially “Aamale Sodhlin Ni”, mourned the death of Nepali soldiers abroad and resonated deeply across generations. Active from 1965 until his death in 2003, he recorded over 100 songs, blending folk and classical styles. His music preserved indigenous narratives and challenged caste-based exclusion, earning him national reverence. Jhalakman’s legacy lives on as a cultural bridge—his voice remains a symbol of dignity, sorrow, and resilience.