Ustad Sahila

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.

Nipesh Dhaka (born 6 October 1981, Pokhara) is a Nepali environmentalist, lyricist, and music composer recognized for his large‑scale environmental music projects and documentary work. He is the creator, lyricist, music composer, and director of the globally recognized environmental anthem “Melancholy,” recorded by 365 Nepali artists at Radio Nepal on 19 May 2016, a project that later achieved the Guinness World Record for “Most Vocal Solos in a Song Recording.”Dhaka holds an M.A./M.Sc. and pursued further studies in Landscape Management, Soil and Water Management at the Technical University of Munich. He has been active since 1999, working across music, environmental advocacy, cinematography, and social campaigns.As the director of SEEM Nepal, he has led multiple environmental awareness initiatives, including research‑based documentaries such as Himalaya Calls (2015), Melancholy (2017), and Rodhan (2017), which explore biodiversity loss, climate change, and sustainable development across Nepal’s ecological regions.His environmental anthem Melancholy was released on 2 September 2017 by President Bidya Devi Bhandari and certified by Guinness World Records on 1 February 2018. The project featured national icons including Madhav Prasad Ghimire, Udit Narayan Jha, Madan Krishna Shrestha, Hari Bansha Acharya, Prem Dhoj Pradhan, Sambhujeet Baskota, and Rajesh Payal Rai.Dhaka describes himself as an “Environmental Fighter”, working through music, research, and public campaigns to raise awareness on climate issues.

Rita KC is a celebrated Nepali singer known for her expressive voice and versatility across modern, folk, and devotional genres. Her standout tracks include: Na Timile Aantyau Mutu Chudinchha Bhanne Timi Pani Harayau Salyanko Chino Laijau Paiya Wala Rail and Koi Aayo Sustari In 2025, Rita KC was honored as a Grand Jury Member on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Lil' Champs Nepal Season 2, where she joined a panel of esteemed musicians to mentor and uplift young singing talents. Her presence brought warmth, experience, and a deep understanding of vocal artistry to the show. She is also the winner of the 7th National Capital Award (2020) in the Singer category and continues to advocate for artistic integrity over fleeting trends.

Praveen Gurung (लोक गायक स्वः प्रविण गुरुङ) was a talented Nepali Lok Dohori singer known for his soulful voice, powerful stage presence, and deep connection to folk culture. He dedicated his musical journey to preserving and promoting authentic Nepali lok geet, earning respect from audiences across the country. His songs often reflected themes of love, struggle, rural life, and cultural identity, making him a beloved figure in the folk community. Praveen’s popular songs include “Jhyamma Jhyamma,” “Sali Ramro Pareki,” “Badhyau Ki Maya,” “Aankha Ko Nindra,” “Kanchi Hou Kanchi,” and “Tadha Tadha,” which helped him gain wide recognition and admiration. Through his music, he created a lasting legacy that continues to inspire fellow artists and listeners even after his untimely passing. He is remembered as a humble, passionate, and influential voice in Nepali folk music.