The latest episode of ‘Salam Jyūndo Itihas̄lai’, a platform by Radio Kantipur that honors artists who have dedicated their lives to music, featured veteran singer and musician Shambhu Rai. Born in Dhankuta, Rai initially sang folk tunes and songs but later adapted himself to modern easy-listening music, earning recognition as a contemporary singer.
At a special event held at Kantipur Television’s studio, Rai was honored by Radio Kantipur’s Station Manager Pawan Acharya, who presented him with a certificate of appreciation and a ceremonial shawl. Before passing the voice test at Radio Nepal, Rai had already gained popularity in the eastern region by singing songs, later recording the same for the radio. One such song is “Chalechha Batas Sustari Manai Harar, Bharosa Chhaina Jiwan Ko Bitaun Hasera” (The wind blows gently, the heart trembles, life is uncertain, so let’s live with joy).
Rai, who won the talent search singing competition organized by Ratna Recording, recorded this song only in 2042 BS (1985 AD). At the event, when singer Sanjay Tumrok performed the same song, Rai became emotional and said, “I feel like I am lost somewhere. Remembering those old times makes my heart tremble.”
Shambhu Rai, who once carried salt on his back from Dhankuta to Dharan, later made his way to Kathmandu and eventually to the United States. However, his heart never strayed from music. He added, “Music is my identity. When I realized that my existence is incomplete without it, I left abroad and returned home to pursue music creation.”
Currently serving as the Vice Chancellor of the Nepal Academy of Music and Drama, Rai has released numerous albums. Once a sarangi player at Radio Nepal, he also established Shraddha Digital Recording Studio to promote new musical talents. Rai, who previously ran the Shraddha Sangeet program on Radio Kantipur, expressed his immense happiness at being honored by the very institution he had worked for.
The event, broadcast live on Radio Kantipur and Kantipur Max HD TV, featured performances by singers Sanjay Tumrok, Raju Barakoti, Kinsaraj Gurung, and Roji Shrestha, who sang his popular songs.
Among the hundreds of songs he has sung and composed, his famous tracks like “Chalechha Batas Sustari,” “Yo Man Bhancha Kaha Jaun,” “Phoolai Phulyo Bains Phulyo,” “Chitthi Timilai Lekhun Bhanchu,” and “Aaludam Chana” were performed by emerging artists during the event.
Previously, ‘Salam Jyūndo Itihas̄lai’, a program held on the last Saturday of every month, had honored artists Bulu Mukarung, CK Rasaili, and Sunil Upreti.
