Parashuram Bhandari

Rabin Lal Shrestha is a Nepali tabla virtuoso and music educator known for his contributions to classical and devotional music in Nepal. Born in Kathmandu, he has been a leading figure in preserving and teaching the tabla tradition for several decades, both as a performer and as a mentor to young musicians. Key facts Birthplace: Kathmandu, Nepal Primary Instrument: Tabla Teaching Position: Lalit Kala Campus, Bhotahiti (since 1989) Notable Albums: Tabla Solo, Grand Rehearsal Collaborations: Suresh Raj Bajracharya (sarod), Prabhu Raj Dhakal (vocals) Musical training and influences Shrestha began studying tabla at the age of ten, inspired by bhajans sung by his father. His early training was under Sadhuram Manandhar, followed by advanced tutelage from Ganesh Raj Wonta, Nara Raj Dhakal, Homnath Upadhyaya, and Sambhu Prasad Misra. This diverse lineage grounded him in the North Indian classical tradition while connecting it to Nepal’s own devotional music culture. Teaching and mentorship Since joining Lalit Kala Campus in 1989 after three years at Holy Garden School, Shrestha has educated generations of students through structured intermediate and diploma programs. His classes maintain a rigorous schedule, emphasizing rhythm discipline and improvisational skill. He is regarded as a key figure in institutionalizing tabla education in Nepal. Performances and recordings Beyond teaching, Shrestha regularly performs at Kathmandu’s Hotel Vajra in a long-running program titled Dafa. He has toured internationally—including performances in Europe with sitarists Tarabir and Bijaya Vaidya—and released two albums: Tabla Solo, accompanied by his instructional book Dafa, and Grand Rehearsal. His work bridges traditional and contemporary interpretations of tabla music. Legacy Rabin Lal Shrestha continues to inspire Nepal’s younger generation of classical musicians. His dual role as performer and educator has made him a cornerstone of the country’s evolving Hindustani percussion scene, ensuring the tabla’s rhythmic heritage remains vibrant in modern Nepal.

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.

Prince Nepali is a fourth-generation Nepali sarangi player and educator. He has made significant contributions to preserving and promoting traditional Nepali folk music through his exceptional skills and dedication. Career Highlights Sarangi Player: Prince Nepali is known for his mastery of the sarangi, a traditional Nepali string instrument. He has performed with various artists and bands, including Bipul Chettri, Ani Choying Drolma, and Sujan Chapagain. Educator: He runs classes at Sarangi Ghar, where he teaches the next generation of sarangi players and works to preserve traditional Nepali music. Fusion Band: Prince Nepali co-founded the Nepali-American folk fusion band Manaslu Blue, blending Appalachian Bluegrass with Nepali folk music

Kushal Thapa is a Nepali lead guitarist known for his versatile work across recording studios, reality‑show stages, and major live concerts. A skilled session musician, he has contributed guitar arrangements and studio recordings for various artists, bringing a blend of melodic phrasing and modern Nepali guitar style.He also performs as a band guitarist for Pramod Kharel, supporting national tours, concerts, and televised performances with expressive lead lines and strong stage presence. His experience across studio, stage, and broadcast settings has established him as a reliable and adaptable guitarist in Nepal’s contemporary music scene.