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With roots going back to her childhood, singer and songwriter Rachana Dahal’s journey in music is one of innate talent, perseverance, and breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

“I have loved singing since my childhood days,” says Dahal, her eyes sparkling with the memories of those formative years. “Even at a young age, I was capable of capturing the melody, music, and tunes much faster than anyone else.” 

Growing up at a time when access to music was limited to television channels and CDs, Dahal’s ability to swiftly pick up tunes became her strength. Her brother, a constant companion and music enthusiast, played a pivotal role by bringing home CDs with diverse collections of songs, allowing Dahal to explore various genres and styles.

Her early exposure to English rock bands like Guns N’ Roses, Linkin Park, and Nirvana significantly influenced her musical taste. “The first song I did cover on was from Guns N’ Roses. I was influenced by English songs,” she says. This eclectic mix of influences helped shape her musical style, blending Western rock elements with her unique touch.

Dahal’s journey from singing at school competitions to writing her own songs was marked by a series of personal milestones and professional achievements. “The first song I released was in 2019, ‘Bhumari’,” she says. Despite having written several songs prior to her debut, Dahal had never considered officially posting her music. “I didn’t have any plans. It just wanted to give it a shot.”

Her songwriting process, Dahal explains, is anything but linear. “There is never a concrete songwriting process,” she says. Sometimes a melody comes first, other times it’s a thought or a feeling that demands expression. “Sometimes a song may take 15 minutes to an entire day.” For Dahal, the bridge of a song holds particular fascination and importance. “In any song, the bridge is the most important part.”

However, the path to success has not been without challenges. The Covid-19 lockdown was a significant setback for Dahal who thrives on live performances. “I’m a person who loves performing,” she says. She had to find solace in writing and introspection. “Lockdown was an experience for me. I learned a lot. I wrote a lot.”

One of Dahal’s ongoing battles is with the gender disparity in the music industry. “I feel we haven’t seen a female headliner yet,” she says. This absence of female representation is something Dahal is determined to change. “I’m working hard to change this mentality.”

Her music reflects not just personal experiences but also societal observations. Her recent project ‘Ma Sakdina’ addresses the expectations placed on women in Nepali society. “This song is about the life of a woman which circles around either being a good daughter or a good daughter-in-law,” she says. The album, ‘Janmadaag’, meaning generational curse, encapsulates these themes, urging listeners to confront and challenge societal norms.

In addition to her captivating melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, Dahal has a unique approach to her live performances. “I like to scream as much as possible,” she says with a grin. “I also want my listeners to scream. We have a lot of bottled-up emotions, and how do we get them out?”  Dahal says her concerts are more than just musical performances. They are therapeutic sessions where emotions are released.

“I want people to come to my concerts and scream their hearts out,” she urges passionately. “Let them be like a therapy session, where we can all collectively release our pent-up feelings and find solace in the power of music.” It’s this raw authenticity and connection with her audience that sets Dahal apart as not just a musician, but a healer through her art.

Dahal’s personal life is intertwined with her professional journey. She speaks fondly of her supportive family, particularly her brother, who is also a musician. “The person who has full support from their parents is probably the luckiest person on earth,” she says. Their understanding and encouragement have been crucial in her pursuit of music.

Looking ahead, Dahal envisions a future filled with music, performances, and personal fulfillment. “I see myself being happy, doing shows and making more music, writing more songs, gaining more experiences, and having lots of cats,” she says with a laugh.

For upcoming musicians, Dahal’s advice is simple yet profound. “Break the wall. Sometimes you feel powerful. You are full of ideas, plans, and visualization. The next day you might feel exactly the opposite way and feel down. Never trust that phase when you are down. Always keep your visualization high and explore your music.”

Reflecting on her aspirations for the broader arts community in Nepal, Dahal emphasizes the need for change and growth. “We talk about and praise international artists, but I think it’s our time to reach the international level. Someone has to level up and take a step to break the boundaries.”

An essential part of Dahal’s journey has been her collaboration with Nirvi Kalpo, a company that has significantly contributed to her growth as a performing artist. “With the help of Nirvi Kalpo, I’ve been doing great shows. Nirvi Kalpo has been a huge part of how I’m establishing myself. This partnership has enabled her to connect with the audience and expand her reach.

With unwavering dedication and passion for music, Dahal is not just creating songs she’s paving the way for future generations of musicians to dream big and challenge the status quo. As she continues to break barriers and inspire with her art, the music industry in Nepal will undoubtedly feel her impact.

It’s said that God couldn’t be everywhere which is why he made mothers. A mother sacrifices her comfort and well-being for the sake of her child. Motherhood is a lifelong commitment filled with countless sacrifices and selfless love. So, let’s take a moment and celebrate the women who have shaped our lives. Whether they are biological mothers, adoptive mothers, or maternal figures who have stepped in to fill our lives with their boundless love. Rastrika Shakya from ApEx spoke with three people to find out what has been the best piece of advice they have received from their mothers so far.

Simran Shakya, 23

The best piece of advice I've ever received from my mamu is to never let anyone discourage you from pursuing what you want to do because there will always be those who don’t want to see your success. This keeps me going and helps me make decisions without the fear of judgments from society. Living far away from home, especially when you find home with your mother, can be difficult but the motivation keeps me going, and her advice always helps me give my best in everything I do no matter what’s happening around me.

Aanita Tuladhar, 51

My maa is a true form of God for me. Whenever life is hard, she is the one I turn to for the solution. She has always encouraged me to trust my instincts, capabilities, and intuition. She has made me able to believe in myself and, by believing in myself, I’ve learned to overcome self-doubt and take on new challenges with courage and determination. She has taught me responsibility and to never turn back from it. I have carried her advice with me all through my marriage. And now that I have a daughter, I often find myself giving her the same advice my mom used to give me.

Sameer Thapa, 35

Mothers are the ones who teach us our first lessons, wipe away our tears, and cheer us on through every step of our life. A mother’s love knows no bounds. My mom has supported me in every path of my life. Her supportive nature and unwavering trust make me believe in myself even during the toughest times. She always tells me to stay true to myself no matter what. This has helped me so much—to believe in what I do and what I actually want to achieve in life. Mothers are full of advice and experience. Never ignore them because it’s precious.

In the heart of Kirtipur is a place of hope and compassion. Baby Life Home and Saphalta HIV Shikshya Sadan, a non-profit organization founded by Raj Kumar Pun in 2011 and 2012, serves as a shelter, care center, and educational institution for children infected with HIV in Nepal. The organization provides children not only with basic necessities like food, shelter, and medical care but also education and emotional support.

Led by Pun, the 41-year-old founder and chairperson, the team consists of seven members. Uma Gurung serves as the founder vice president. “Before establishing this organization, we were all involved in different professions. I was a teacher. Others were engaged in businesses or had steady jobs,” says Pun. Despite their diverse backgrounds, they shared a common passion—they wanted to work for the marginalized community and make a positive impact in society.

The concept of Baby Life Home took shape over 15 years ago when Pun came across a daily newspaper headline ‘HIV-infected children in trouble’. Moved by a deep sense of empathy and a desire to help these children, Pun embarked on a mission to provide assistance. Along with his team, he traveled to Dang, intending to provide basic necessities such as food, clothing, and stationery supplies. But what they encountered there was something they could have never imagined.

Upon arriving at the shelter, Pun and his team witnessed a heartbreaking reality. “The children’s families and relatives were mistreating them. Other children weren’t allowed to play with them. It was heartbreaking,” says Pun. The seeds of Baby Life Home were thus planted. Pun wanted to give these children a loving home. He wanted them to have a safe space.

However, the journey was challenging. No one wanted to rent out their homes to them due to the many misconceptions they had about HIV transmission. So, they created a temporary shelter at Gurung’s residence. Later, Pun decided to keep the children in a house he had bought for his parents. “We started the shelter with four children and the number had gone up to ten by that time,” he says.

Many schools were hesitant to admit the children due to fears of stigma and discrimination. “Initially, we believed that providing proper medical care would enable our children to be accepted into any school. But this assumption proved wrong as neither private nor government schools were willing to take them in,” says Pun.

Their decision to start Saphalta HIV Shikshya Sadan was born out of this reality. They wanted a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where HIV-infected children could thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Saphalta HIV Shikshya Sadan is Nepal’s first school and orphanage to openly support education for HIV-infected children without concealing their HIV status, ensuring their right to education in a caring environment.

In addition to being infected with HIV, many children at Baby Life Home also suffer from various other diseases and health conditions. Some have heart diseases, while others suffer from epilepsy. “We have never solicited donations specifically for medical purposes. While money is important, we are grateful when people willingly contribute, donate food, or celebrate special occasions with us. We graciously accept such contributions,” says Pun.

To manage the children’s condition, Baby Life Home procures Antiretrovirals (ARVs) from Teku Hospital which provides them free of cost to meet the needs of HIV-infected children. These medications, donated by the World Health Organization to the Nepali government, are acquired according to the specific requirements of each child ensuring that they receive the appropriate dosage and combination of medicines tailored to their medical needs. Each child’s treatment is carefully monitored, with regular assessments of effectiveness to ensure optimal outcome.

Recognizing the challenges and trauma these children face due to their health condition and societal stigma, at Baby Life Home, counseling plays a crucial role. “Life is transient, and people don’t only die from HIV/AIDS. So, it’s not worth worrying too much about death. Instead, we should strive to live our lives to the fullest, enjoying each moment,” says Pun “Even though we may not have given birth to them, we are their parents and we want to provide them with the life they deserve.”

Pun has a double masters’ degree in sociology and political Science, demonstrating his commitment to understanding the complexities of society and governance. He has also completed a CMA (Community Medicine Assistance) degree, further enhancing his understanding of healthcare and medical issues, particularly in the context of HIV/AIDS.

Pun is thankful for the government’s assistance. “Our former prime minister, K P Oli, came to know about the organization and created a substantial fixed deposit for us. We are able to use the interest generated from this deposit for the children’s medication and basic needs,” he says. Additionally, the government has granted them access to Social Security Allowance as well.

Pun believes there is more the government can do for the welfare of HIV-infected children in Nepal. It’s important to raise awareness and dispel myths and misconceptions about HIV/AIDS, he says.

Pun’s dedication has turned out to be fruitful. The organization is currently providing services to over 100 HIV-infected children—a testament to the power of compassion and community driven initiatives. Some of the children are studying to become doctors, while others have graduated with degrees in arts and social work. This, Pun believes, is a testament to the resilience and determination of these children, who despite adversity continue to pursue their dreams and ambitions with unwavering courage.

Labor Day is a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of workers in our society. While a day to honor the laborers is a good thing, its significance can be diminished if there’s a lack of tangible support or services throughout the year. Rastrika Shakya from ApEx talked to three people to find out what changes they would like to see so that life can be better.

Lok Bahadur Shrestha, 53

I’m originally from Ramechhap, and I’ve been working as a laborer in Lalitpur for the past 30 years. I earn a basic income and provide for my family’s basic needs. To me, no work is too big or too small. Every job deserves equal respect.

I’ve never celebrated Labor Day. Work is essential for sustaining our lives, and although I’ve heard of Labor Day, I’ve never taken a holiday from work for it. We survive on a basic wage, so even one day’s pay is valuable to us. It’s disheartening to see the lack of government support for laborers like myself. The government should provide us with services and ensure our safety. I’m not a member of the worker’s union. I’ve heard they provide services, but I’ve never seen them in action, so I don’t really trust them, and I’m not involved with them either.

Lok B Shrestha, 32

I’ve been working at a catering service for three years now. For me, anything that contributes to making a living is work, and it requires hard work. I help out at a catering service, and the income I earn is sufficient to support my family. However, our work isn’t permanent, and it’s not consistent. We work based on people’s needs. There are days when I work, but there might not be any work the next day, which can be challenging. I hope for better income opportunities for us. We rely on a basic income, but I wish for more stability. I want my children to have good opportunities, which require a good education, and that requires money. Labor Day holidays are appreciated, but we need more ongoing assistance and support.

Yubraj Shrestha, 35

I’ve been working as a laborer for the past six years. For me, work is simply a means to live, to survive, really. I don’t possess any other skills to earn money, so working as a laborer is my only option. I provide for my family with the basic wages I earn. Sometimes, I even take loans just to get by. I’m doing my best to educate my children with the limited income I have.

I wish governments would provide us with skillful training, services, and employment opportunities that would enable us to earn a decent income. I want to be able to provide a good education for my children. Laborers want to feel respected by society too. That’s something I truly wish for.

Education is the foundation of personal growth and empowerment, enabling people to pursue their aspirations and make meaningful contributions to society. But is education in Nepal shaping our futures in the way it should and putting us on the right track? Rastrika Shakya from ApEx talked to three people to find out what changes they would like to see in our education system.

Preeti Karniyar

When it comes to recognizing the current challenges and opportunities, there are various potential areas to focus on such as infrastructure development, vocational training, community engagement, and teacher training. But, in my opinion, curriculum enhancement is one of the most important areas, as it reflects our education standards.

Moreover, with modern educational practices and standards, integrating technology into the curriculum could help students develop digital literacy skills and opportunities for the coming days of artificial intelligence. Enhancing the curriculum offers students with interdisciplinary learning opportunities that indirectly help develop creative and critical thinking skills.

Pushpa Bhandari

The recent appointment of Sumana Shrestha as the education minister is promising. In comparison to the past, education in Nepal is a lot better. The free and compulsory education act ensures that students across Nepal receive basic education. Kathmandu mayor Balen Shah has created the provision of scholarships for high school students, and many institutions have been authorized to run international courses such as the IB and A levels. But there are still some gaps and loopholes in the education system. As a BA student under the TU curriculum, I constantly find my exams being delayed and results being published late. In many cases, exam papers have been lost and all of that is extremely disheartening.

Krish Dangol

Nepal’s education system is progressing, with increasing awareness among people about the importance of education. However, the country’s diverse socio economic landscape presents challenges, as not everyone can afford the expenses associated with good education. It’s concerning to observe schools imposing high fees under various guises such as sports, transportation, and library charges, even at the primary level, which is unacceptable.

One crucial change I would like to see is reforming the education system to ensure that every individual, regardless of their background, has access to quality education. Education is a fundamental right for all, and it’s imperative to provide adequate facilities and ensure accessibility for students despite their backgrounds.

In the busy world of digital content creation, Aashutosh Barahi stands out as a beacon of cultural preservation and creativity. At 28, Barahi has carved a unique position for himself as a content creator and YouTuber, leading the charge at Jyasa Films, a production company dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the rich tapestry of Nepal Bhasa culture. It all began with a character inspired by his own parents—the lovable ‘Baa’ with his humorous line ‘Dhasa dhala dhai’.

Barahi’s transition into content creation from an IT student began during his internship in an IT company when he crossed paths with Dhiraj Magar. “I saw him recording himself in front of the camera, and talking to it. It really intrigued me,” says Barahi.

Driven by this curiosity, Barahi embarked on his journey into the world of YouTube, immersing himself in research and experimentation to understand the platform. He was eager to learn more about making videos, so he attended an acting workshop organized by Fun Revolution TV, where he met many other like-minded individuals. The workshop not only equipped him with acting skills but also provided him with invaluable connections and insights into the entertainment industry.

In his pursuit of further career opportunities in the field of IT, Barahi made the difficult decision to part ways with Fun Revolution TV. “In 2020, I had an interview for an enticing work opportunity. But I got rejected,” he says. While this setback might have been discouraging, Barahi later realized that the rejection played a significant role in shaping his path towards content creation.

Barahi’s journey into Nepal Bhasa content creation began with a deep-seated desire to represent his culture and connect with today’s generation, particularly teenagers. Despite initial doubts about the audience’s interest due to the declining usage of Nepal Bhasa among the younger population, Barahi followed his instincts and created a video in Nepal Bhasa.

“To my surprise, the video gained significant traction, receiving widespread recognition and appreciation from Newa communities and beyond,” he says. What initially started as a form of entertainment soon transformed into a platform for cultural preservation and promotion. “This was unexpected but rewarding,” he adds.

Barahi expresses his happiness in knowing that his work is making a meaningful impact in today’s society. “Children who don’t speak Nepal Bhasa are learning to speak by watching my videos. I feel it’s a responsibility now—for me and my team,” he says.

Through projects like the Ethic Exploration with Niti Shah, he has witnessed firsthand the decline of cultural values and linguistic diversity in various communities, such as the Rai and Tharu communities. “It’s sad to see all these essential aspects of our identity being lost,” he says, adding, the relevant content in Nepal Bhasa can go a long way in preserving our cultural heritage.

Barahi says he believes that by creating and sharing videos that celebrate Nepal Bhasa and its traditions, he and his team are contributing to the safeguarding of their cultural legacy.

Initially, Barahi’s team consisted of himself and just two other people. However, as their projects gained traction and their ambitions grew, the team saw the addition of four more people. Understanding the historical and cultural context of their topics is crucial for creating authentic and meaningful content. Barahi relies on his instincts for generating ideas but also seeks wisdom from elder people who have a deep knowledge and understanding of the culture and its nuances.

Barahi says he wants to venture into Newa movies in the future despite being unsure about audience response and acceptance. “Despite pouring our hearts and souls into previous projects, such as the Holi Punhi video, we were disappointed by the turnout at a screening event,” he says. But he is grateful for the support he has received this far and emphasizes the importance of audience participation in sustaining the Nepal Bhasa film industry.

Content creators, he says, face a lot of financial and logistical struggles despite putting in a lot of effort. Barahi appeals to the audience for support, not just by viewing content but also by participating in events and programs organized by his team. “When we organize events with a ticket system, it’s important to understand that the proceeds aren’t solely for profits. The funds go towards our other projects, all aimed at enhancing your entertainment experience,” he says.

He wants Newa films and content to be as popular as Nepali or Bollywood movies. Despite the challenges of a smaller audience, Barahi remains undeterred in his goal to tell diverse stories and portray the rich cultural heritage of the Newa community on the big screen. For now, he is proud of his new project, ‘Maya Madula’, a song by Rojman Maharjan and Nisha Dehar, for which the team worked tirelessly for many days.

His commitment to representing and celebrating the rich tapestry of Nepal Bhasa has not only resonated with audiences but has also sparked a newfound appreciation for linguistic diversity and heritage. Barahi’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring content creators, demonstrating that staying true to one’s roots and embracing one’s cultural identity can lead to both personal fulfillment and societal impact.

Each person’s journey through the year is unique, shaped by individual experiences, challenges, triumphs, and personal growth. If we carry the lessons close to our hearts, we can embrace challenges with courage, foster connections with compassion, and sow seeds of hope for a brighter and more resilient future. Rastrika Shakya from ApEx spoke to three people to find out what was the most important lesson they learned in the past year.

Merry Jones Chaudhary

There is a saying that it doesn’t matter how slowly you go as long as you don’t stop but the Nepali year 2080 was a year of ups and downs, hindering my path and progress. It made me realize that much like our city roads our lives too can’t be smooth and hassle-free. I learned that you need to handle situations with grace and find joy in the little things. I learned never to give up, go along with the flow, and try to make the best of every situation. In a way, it made me more confident to take on the challenges that come my way.

Biren Shrestha

I discovered that there is a lot of joy in learning and that it’s the path to proficiency. Being involved in multiple dramas, poetry, and journalism projects has been a progressive and productive journey. Next, I learned camaraderie, and how to be associated with people I hold dear. Surprisingly, even studying was a breeze, providing a refreshing level of satisfaction. Towards the tail-end of the Nepali year, several deep conversations and poetry sessions later, I learned to recognize my needs and the things that shape me. But mainly, I understood pain and how to wield and learn from it to become a better person.

Aadarsha Bhandari

My interactions, studies, and exposure to professionals in the field I belong to have helped me learn different things throughout the years. I can say that I’m better able to deal with different kinds of individuals today than I was a couple of years ago. I’m not scared of coming out of my comfort zone because I’ve realized that’s the only way to grow. The year 2080 has helped to polish my communications and interpersonal skills. One of the major lessons I learnt was to let things go and to not let the past affect your present or just get stuck in it.

Ramesh Subedi, musician, music composer, and a teacher, has an indomitable spirit. Born visually impaired in 1979 in Kerabari Rural Municipality, Morang, his passion for music started during his formative years at Gyan Chachu School, a school catering to visually impaired students, where the air was always filled with melodies.

“From my earliest days at Gyan Chachu School, I found support and inspiration among fellow visually impaired students,” he says. “It was here that my interest in music began, nurtured by the supportive environment and the creative energy within the school walls.”

When Subedi was in grade five he composed his first song. The lyrics–Totey boli bolera, nana papa lyayi magne, kati ramro bani timro gyani bhayi basne–were penned by his friend Prem Rai. This was perhaps what marked the start of a lifelong pursuit of musical expression.

“I was drawn to politics at first. I aspired to become the chief justice and advocate for the rights of the underprivileged. I believed involvement in politics would provide me with a platform to be heard,” says Subedi. “But I soon discovered my true passion in music.”  

He recognized music had the potential not only for personal fulfillment but also for social impact. This realization led him to pursue formal music education at Lalit Kala Campus, specializing in vocal performance, and immersing himself in the study of various musical instruments.

Learning the guitar proved to be particularly challenging. He met several teachers who struggled to effectively communicate their knowledge with him. However, Subedi refused to give up. “After numerous attempts, I eventually found a teacher, Subash Mukhiya, whose professional teaching skills and patience proved to be invaluable,” he says. Under Mukhiya’s guidance, Subedi embarked on a four and a half year journey of learning the guitar. Mukhiya’s ability to adapt his teaching methods played a crucial role in Subedi’s learning journey and eventual success. 

“When you are truly passionate about something, don’t let it fade as a dream. Instead, keep working hard, and you will eventually find yourself where you are meant to be,” says Subedi.

Subedi’s journey of learning the keyboard was challenging. But he persisted in his efforts, attending music schools and seeking out instructors until he found one who was willing to take him on as a student. “That moment when the teacher said yes to teaching me was a turning point for me. The acceptance ignited a sense of confidence and determination that pushed me forward in my journey,” he says. 

As someone who was visually impaired , Subedi understands the difficulties of finding suitable teachers and resources for learning instruments. His struggles fueled his desire to pave a smoother way for future generations of visually impaired musicians. He became an advocate for actively working to raise awareness about the importance of accessibility and providing resources for visually impaired musicians.

Throughout his career, Subedi has balanced his roles as teacher at Laboratory Higher Secondary School in Kirtipur, Kathmandu, and also as a musician at Dohori Fewa Restaurant.

Joining the Laboratory Higher Secondary School was a pivotal moment in his career as an educator. In 2004, he started on a journey that would not only shape the lives of his students but also redefine the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of education. “Joining Laboratory School was the best decision for me because I have gained a lot of experiences. I have had the chance to enable my students to participate in various events to showcase their musical performances,” says Subedi.

Subedi’s tenure at Laboratory School is marked by his dedication to inclusivity. Teaching Braille to nearly 50 visually impaired students, he ensures equal access to education. His efforts to seamlessly integrate visually impaired students into the classroom alongside their sighted peers have created a truly inclusive atmosphere, where everyone feels valued and supported.

“As a music teacher, I bring my passion for music to every lesson, inspiring students to explore their creativity and express themselves,” he says. Subedi has further demonstrated his commitment to his students’ artistic growth by publishing a separate collection of their songs. This project showcases the talents of his students and provides them with a platform to share their musical creations with a wider audience.

Subedi’s songs have been sung by a variety of talented artists in the Nepali music industry. Some notable singers include Babu Bogati, Rajeshpal Rai, Swarup Acharya, Kamal Khatri, Purnakala BC, Krishna Bhakta Rai, and Reema Gurung among others. These singers have lent their unique voices and interpretations to Subedi’s songs, helping to bring his compositions to life and share them with audiences across Nepal and beyond.

Subedi’s contributions to the field of music and education have not gone unnoticed. He has received several awards including the Godhuli Sur-Sadhana Sewa Puraskar and the Kartikeya Children’s Literature Promotion Award, which highlight his significant impact on Nepali culture and society. 

His dedication to preserving Nepali music and culture is evident in his publication of a songbook containing a collection of 70 songs with lyrics and chords in 2005. This comprehensive resource serves as a valuable tool for aspiring musicians and educators, ensuring the continued legacy of Nepali music for future generations.

Subedi’s family plays an integral role in his life, providing love, support, and encouragement as he pursues his passion for music and education. “Despite the challenges I faced in my career, my family stands by me, they’re proud of my achievements and dedication” says Subedi. Subedi’s son looks up to his father with admiration. Seeing his father fills him with a sense of pride and wonder as he realizes the impact his father has had on the lives of others through his music and teaching.