Pramila Rai

Sanjeep Pradhan recorded his first song in 1992 with “Mero Preet Mero Priya”. Though his first album came out only in 1995, his “Nasha Bhitra Nasha” had already hit the mass and was popular among Nepalese throughout the world. His first hit was reggae based and if he was to go by the trend of other Nepalese musician, he would have brought out more numbers in the same line. However, his next productions were more folk based. His voice has a unique lilt to it that suits folk songs. And capturing this quality, he brought out folk-pop mix songs like “Siri Ma Siri”, “Deuraliko Chautarima”,”Sanai chhanda” and “Udi Jane” in his next album. This way, he revived the vanishing popularity of folk songs among the Nepalese audience. With “Siri Ma Siri” even the hip-hop generation of youths started humming in the folk tunes, making it as popular as the new trend of pop songs. Sanjeep is not only well versant in Nepalese songs, he sings equally well in Newari. His “Mohani Wola Swanti Wola” and “Punhi ya jaa:” are popular equally among the Newar speaking society and those who do not understand Newari. Maybe it is his voice that has captured the hearts of the music lovers who are ever in search of a different quality in music or maybe it is his lyrics and music itself that has moved the mass. Whatever it may be, Sanjeep can do it all. Most of his songs are written and composed by himself. And maybe that is why he has been able to give full justice to the creation. He has already lent his voice to 300 songs, which has been recorded in five Nepali albums and four Newari albums. He has already performed in 600 stage shows including all major cities of Nepal, Darjeeling and Sikkim. He has also performed in Japan,Malaysia,Qatar,USA & Hong Kong in 1996, 1997, 1998 and 2000. And every show has increased his popularity in every place he has performed, drawing more crowd every time.

Sujata Verma is a versatile artist known for her captivating performances in the music industry. Let’s explore more about her: Hindustani Classical Vocalist: Sujata Verma has made a mark as a Hindustani classical vocalist, enchanting audiences with her soulful renditions. Playback Singer: Her melodious voice has graced numerous playback songs, leaving a lasting impact on listeners. Solo Performances: Sujata has also mesmerized audiences with her solo performances, showcasing her vocal prowess and emotional depth. Reality Shows: She has participated in reality shows, where her talent and passion for music have shone brightly. You can find her music on platforms like Spotify, where she has a monthly listenership of around 3,000. Additionally, you can explore her YouTube channel, where she shares her musical journey and covers various songs. For instance: “Raktim (रक्तिम)” Cover: Sujata Verma beautifully covered this song by Phatteman Raj Bhandari in the Rendition Series 2023. “Chautaarima Basera” Cover: Her rendition of Aruna Lama and Gopal Yonjan’s classic is worth listening to. Sujata Verma’s dedication to music continues to inspire fans and fellow artists alike. 🎵🌟

Melwa Devi Gurung, also known as Melawa Devi, holds the distinction of being Nepal's first female recording artist. Born in 1954 B.S. (circa 1897) in Rumjatar, Okhaldhunga District, Nepal, she emerged as a pioneering figure in the nation's musical landscape. In 1928, Melwa Devi traveled to Calcutta (now Kolkata), British India, to record her songs, marking a significant milestone in Nepali music history. Among her notable recordings are "Na Gharlai Ghar Kahincha Nari Nai Durbar Ho" and "Sawari Mero Relaima," which resonated with many listeners and showcased her exceptional talent. Her musical prowess garnered the attention of Chandra Shumsher Jang Bahadur Rana, the Prime Minister of Nepal at the time, under whose patronage she performed. Melwa Devi's contributions not only paved the way for future generations of female artists but also enriched Nepal's cultural heritage.​ In recognition of her impact, Nepal issued a commemorative postage stamp in her honor in 2013, celebrating her legacy as an eminent singer.

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.