Renowned singer and music composer Ganesh Rasik has passed away at the age of 78. He breathed his last on Sunday at Nepal Cancer Hospital, Hattiban, after battling prostate cancer for five years. His family and the Musician’s Association confirmed the sad news.
Rasik’s only daughter is returning from the UK, and his final rites will be held after her arrival. For now, his body has been kept at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital.
Ganesh Rasik began his musical journey nearly five decades ago with the ‘Lekali’ group. He quickly became one of the most respected figures in Nepali music, known for his deep lyrics and soulful voice that portrayed the struggles, hopes, and dreams of ordinary people.
Besides music, Rasik was also a well-known writer. He published over a dozen books including stories, poems, novels, memoirs, and essays. Born in Bhojpur’s Chhinamkhu village in 2004 BS (1947 AD), he was the son of Narottam Rai and Ratnamaya Rai.
He held a Bachelor’s degree and served in various prestigious roles across Nepal’s cultural institutions for more than 31 years. His notable positions included leading Ratna Recording Institute, Cultural Institute, Sajha Publication, and serving as Secretary of the Nepal Music and Drama Academy.
As a second-generation artist after legends like Natikaji and Narayan Gopal, Rasik’s work stood out for its poetic simplicity, patriotic themes, and strong connection to Nepal’s soil and soul. His legacy will continue to inspire Nepali music for generations.
