KATHMANDU, Aug 20: This month’s edition of Paleti, the intimate musical series hosted at Nepalaya’s R-Sala on the last Friday of every English month, will spotlight veteran composer Ram Krishna Duwal. The concert, scheduled for Friday, August 29, will also feature young singers Abhigya Ghimire and Benup Chhetri, who will join Duwal on stage.
A native of Kirtipur, Duwal has dedicated decades to researching and preserving the traditional culture of Nepal Bhasa, while also making influential contributions to Nepali-language songs. His artistry is woven into Nepal’s political and social fabric: he composed the melody for poet Gopal Prasad Rimal’s iconic lyrics “Ek Jugma Ek Din Ek Choti Aauchha”, a song that has remained a soundtrack of political movements since 2036 BS.
Equally celebrated is his refined version of the Nepal Bhasa classic “Sirsa Ya Heku”, which continues to resonate far beyond the Newar community, inspiring countless school performances since it was first broadcast nearly four decades ago.
Lyrical poems at April’s Paleti
According to musician Aabhash, who has been curating Paleti, this month’s program will be a rare confluence of Nepal Bhasa and Nepali musical traditions. “Duwal Dai is a living heritage of the Kathmandu Valley’s musical civilization. We are thrilled to showcase his genius at Paleti,” he said.
The evening will also revive historic works in Nepal Bhasa, including a poignant composition attributed to King Ranajit Malla. Legend holds that the exiled monarch wrote the song while gazing at the Valley from Chandragiri before leaving for Kashi, capturing the sorrow of parting with his homeland. To ensure inclusivity, organizers will provide Nepali translations of such timeless pieces.
The program will further highlight Duwal’s contributions to children’s music. With years of experience teaching in schools, he has written his own songs for young audiences and composed melodies for poems by Durga Lal Shrestha. In addition, he has set classical Chhanda poems to music, selecting the Panchchamaar and Mandakranta Chhanda especially for this performance.
Looking ahead to the event, Duwal shared his excitement:
“I have sung and performed on many stages in my life, but this Paleti will be a milestone. To share the stage with young musicians and feel the audience’s love in such an intimate setting will be truly special.”
Now in its 20th year, Paleti remains one of Nepal’s most beloved and enduring musical gatherings. The August edition will take place on Friday, August 29 at Nepalaya’s R-Sala in Kalikasthan. Tickets are available online at www.paleti.com.np.
