A Look Back at Iconic Nepali Film Songs Celebrating Holi Festival

Kathmandu. Holi, also known as Fagu Purnima. The great festival of colors, excitement, and affection. As spring arrives, nature changes its colors, and people's hearts are filled with joy. The Nepali film industry has also artistically presented cultural and indigenous festivals on screen.

The tradition of incorporating Holi references and cheerful songs in films, from past years to the present day, is quite appealing. These Nepali film songs do not just provide entertainment; rather, they also preserve the significance of our culture and festivals.

It is believed that dancing to the rhythm of these songs deepens the colors of Holi and strengthens relationships. Here, we discuss those famous and popular Holi songs from Nepali films that make every year's Holi more musical and colorful.

‘Aaj Janakpurme Holi Hai’

Holi in the Mithila region and Janakpur has a distinct vibrancy. The song ‘Aaj Janakpurme Holi Hai’ from the film ‘Sita’ captures that musical tradition of Janakpur. It features the acting of Saranga Shrestha, Rajaram Paudel, and Kiran KC, based on the stories of the late artist Shree Krishna Shrestha. Released in B.S. 2051, this song still resonates from the Terai to the hills.

‘Holile Mero Rangaayo Naya Choli’

This is considered the most popular and 'evergreen' Holi song in Nepali film history. Included in the film ‘Adhikar’ made in 1993, this song is frequently used every Holi. Featuring Rajesh Hamal, Kristi Mainali, and Mithila Sharma, the song is sung by Udit Narayan Jha, Deepa Jha, Prakash Shrestha, and Purnima Shrestha. This song is equally enjoyed by every generation. 

‘Holi Re’ 

‘Holi Re’ is very popular among the modern generation and is featured in the film ‘Butterfly’ released in B.S. 2074. The song from the film directed by Om Pratik showcases the energetic performances of actress Priyanka Karki and Aryan Adhikari. Written by Pramod Dhungana with music by Bikash Chaudhary, the song is sung by Rajesh Payal Rai and Mandavi Tripathi. Young people can be seen playing Holi every year while playing this song.

‘Fagu Ho Fagu Ho’ (Film - Basanti) 

This song from the historically based film ‘Basanti’ (2000) gives a glimpse of the Holi celebrated inside the palace during the Rana regime. Directed by Neer Shah, the film is based on the novel by renowned novelist Diamond Shamsher Rana. The song features the classical and indigenous dance of Rajesh Hamal, Karishma Manandhar, and Niruta Singh. Neer Shah's lyrics, Shambhujeet Baskota's music, and the melodious voices of Gyanu Rana and Lochan Bhattarai make this song distinguished.

‘Horime Gori’ (Film - Sanrakshan)

The song that gives the real 'flavor' of Terai Holi is ‘Horime Gori’. Included in the film ‘Sanrakshan’ directed by Purnendra Jha, this song has the sweetness of Bhojpuri words, representing Holi in the Terai region. Written by Dhirendra Premarshi, with vocals and music by Pravesh Mallick, the song features powerful dance performances by Sougat Malla and Ashishma Nakarmi.

‘Aau Na Aau Khelau Holi’ - Film - Fagu) 

This song from the film ‘Fagu’, produced by actress Karishma Manandhar, feels like an excellent invitation for Holi. Written by Dayaram Pandey with music by Basanta Sapkota, the song features the acting of Shilpa Pokharel and Subash Parajuli. The collective vocals of Mina Niraula, Manoj Mahato, and Ranjit Kumar Sahani reflect the festive mood in the song.

‘Ranga Ranga’ (Film: Gajalu) 

This song from the film ‘Gajalu’, starring Anmol KC, the 'chocolate hero' of Nepali films, is a favorite among the youth. With lyrics and music by Jain J and vocals by Shivani Moktan, the song features a fun sequence with Anmol KC alongside Srishti Shrestha, Gaurav Pahari, Menuka Pradhan, and Salon Basnet. Directed by Hemraj BC, the song presents the modern vibrancy of Holi.