Darjeeling Musician Durga Kharel to Feature in Nepalaya's 'Paleti' Music Program

The musical program 'Paleti,' held on the last Friday of every English month at Nepalaya's 'R' Sala, will feature renowned Darjeeling singer and musician Durga Kharel this time. The Paleti program is a short musical event that has been running for 21 years now.

Durga is an established name among all Nepali-speaking audiences in the Nepali music industry. The song 'Bolau Bhane Timilai Baat Lagne Dar' became popular in Durga's voice. The musical duo of elder brother Badri Kharel and Durga Kharel is known as Badri-Durga. This time, however, Durga is presenting melodies he heard and cherished since childhood. Along with Durga, past tunes will resonate in the voice of Paleti's vocalist, Abhigya Ghimire, during the program.

Durga, who grew up in the proximity of musician Gopal Yonjan, had the opportunity to savor the creations of many distinguished artists like Amber Gurung, Jitendra Bardewa, Shanti Thatal, Karma Yonjan, and others in his youth. He even had the chance to collaborate with lyricist Narden Rumba. He informed that he will reflect that past environment in Paleti, which will include compositions by music creators such as Amber Gurung, Gopal Yonjan, Balu Baraili, M.B. Sundas, Narden Rumba, Fatikdhar Brahman, and others.

Regarding this edition of Paleti, program coordinator Abhas says, 'One of Paleti's objectives is to preserve old musical compositions that have not yet been set to music. That is why, in this Paleti, we have tried to incorporate old creations from Darjeeling through Durga Kharel's memory.'

Recalling the first time he performed at Paleti in 2008, Durga Kharel says, 'Before this, we had appeared twice with songs by various lyricists in our music. This time, however, I am presenting songs by Darjeeling musicians from my personal memory at Paleti. This program is among the most significant endeavors of my life. I have full faith that we will receive the love of the audience and listeners this time as well.' Durga, seen with a faint smile, appears to be gazing at the keys of the harmonium.