Cincinnati , OH: The much-anticipated “Ranjit Gazmer Festival” in the United States concluded on a high note, celebrating the illustrious career of Nepali music composer Ranjit Gazmer. The festival, titled “Jindagani Dharpan Chaya,” was led by Bhutanese music composer and singer Pratab Subba and held in Cincinnati, Ohio. The event brought together a diverse audience to honor Gazmer’s remarkable contributions to the Nepali music industry.
Organized by the Nakshatra Foundation in association with the Menuka Memorial Foundation and Bhutanese Nepali Artists Presents, the festival featured live performances from 24 Nepali singers and musicians. Renowned Nepali and Bhutanese artists, including Robin Sharma, Sujata Verma, Kiran Gajmer, Manju Lama, Kanchi Maya Subba, Tek Dutraj, Samjhana Oli, Shital Sharma, Kishor Siwakoti, Ronan Subba, Monarath Tiwari, Usha Gurung, NK Brothers, Laxmi Lamichane, Juna Prasai, Nikesh Kadariya, Chhabi Neopaney, Shiva Mapchan, Prabin Deyali, Biren Rasily, and others, paid tribute to Gazmer’s musical legacy.
The event also showcased performances by poet Nawaraj Parajuli, whose poem paid tribute to Gazmer’s spouse, songwriter Kusum Gazmer. “Nawaraj’s poem was emotional and moving; it truly brought the presence of the legendary songwriter Shree Kusum Aama,” said Bhutanese artists Bhuwan Ranpal and Prakash Darnal. Bhutanese first Nepali songwriter and singer Pratab Subba, and Naksatra Foundation CEO Arjun Subedi honored Ranjit Gazmer (Babuji) during the program.
Artists Ramesh Kadel & Samjhana Oli, Monrath Tiwari & Sujata Verma, Neekesh Kadariya & Manju Lama, Prabin Bardewa & Juna Prasai, and Ronan Subba & Kanchhi Maya Subba all contributed in the medley sessions. Additionally, both veteran and emerging Bhutanese Nepali artists presented Gazmer’s works in various forms. Music director Sushil Bishwakarma and Assistant Program Director Amber Tumbapo Subba ensured the festival ran smoothly, creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
Ranjit Gazmer, whose influence spans multiple countries, was celebrated for his enduring legacy and invaluable contributions to the cultural heritage of Nepal. Despite residing in India, Gazmer’s impact on the Nepali music scene remains unparalleled, as reflected by the enthusiastic reception of the festival, stated musician and host Bishnu Ramdam. Senior musician and Program Director Ram Gurung expressed his gratitude, stating, “The festival’s success is a testament to the unity and appreciation for Nepali music across borders. We are thrilled to have honored Ranjit Gazmer’s legacy in such a memorable way.”
The festival also highlighted Gazmer’s journey from Kathmandu to Mumbai and his collaborations with legendary figures like R.D. Burman, underscoring his multifaceted musical career, which encourages the current generation to pursue music. The Nepali musicians on rhythm and percussion sections and the string section, conducted by Mason Cancilla, provided a rich musical experience, said Kishor Siwakoti, president of Menuka Memorial Foundation.
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