Nagendra Bikram Rai

Dashain and Malshree Dhun are deeply connected in Nepali culture. The sacred melody of Malshree is considered the musical soul of Dashain, and helping preserve this tradition is Nepal’s first and only female sarod player, Rupa Neupane. Rupa Neupane was born in Asar 2026 B.S. (1969 A.D.) in Mulpani, Kathmandu. She was married at the age of 12 in 2038 B.S. Despite early marriage and social responsibilities, her passion for music gradually found its way into her life. At the age of 24, in 2050 B.S. (1993 A.D.), she began learning the sarod, marking the beginning of her remarkable musical journey. She first trained under senior sarod maestro Mohan Sundar Shrestha in Kathmandu. Later, she continued her studies with Suresh Raj Bajracharya and further refined her skills under Dr. Anupama Kumari in India. Through dedication and continuous practice, she steadily established herself as a respected sarod instrumentalist. In a field traditionally dominated by men, Rupa Neupane broke barriers and created a historic identity as Nepal’s pioneering female sarod player. Her performances of Malshree Dhun during Dashain have strengthened the cultural connection between classical instrumental music and Nepal’s most celebrated festival. Today, she continues her journey as a committed sarod artist, inspiring women and young musicians across the country. Her life reflects perseverance, courage, and devotion to classical music, proving that passion and determination can overcome social and personal challenges.

Nepal has many flautists but no one has completed his Masters in flute-playing as has Jeevan Ale, He completed his Masters from the Prayag Institute of Illahabad, India. Having devoted more than half of his life to classical music, this resident of Mahottari has finally received accolades for his efforts. Though interested in flutes from an early age, Ale says that he only understood the intensity of its music when he started studying it. he was more involved in the academic side of music rather than the practical. He taught at Kathmandu University and also gave private tuitions.  

Roshan Putwar is a Nepali flute player known for his warm tone, expressive phrasing, and ability to blend classical technique with modern Nepali melodies. Active in studio recordings, live performances, and cultural events, he brings a soulful, folk‑rooted sound to contemporary music while preserving the traditional character of Nepali flute playing

Mukesh Shakya is a young Nepali tabalist and classical musician, known as a disciple of the late maestro Rabin Lal Shrestha. He has performed in classical music sessions organized by the Society of Classical Music Nepal, including their 76th session, where his tabla playing was featured and praised for its precision and depth. Mukesh represents a new generation of Nepali classical artists dedicated to preserving and evolving traditional forms like tabla and Hindustani music. His training under Rabin Lal Shrestha places him in a respected lineage of percussionists, and his public performances reflect a growing commitment to Nepal’s classical music scene