Modernians Win Hearts with Power-Packed Musical Tribute to Arun Thapa in Bhaktapur
The musical tribute program was organized by Bhaktapur Sangeetik Samaj on Saturday at the premises of Modern School/College, Srijananagar, Sallaghari, Bhaktapur–1.
Bhaktapur, August 13, 2026 — Students of Modern School and College, Bhaktapur, won widespread appreciation for their outstanding musical performances during a special tribute program commemorating the 27th death anniversary of legendary Nepali singer Arun Thapa.
The musical tribute program was organized by Bhaktapur Sangeetik Samaj on Saturday at the premises of Modern School/College, Srijananagar, Sallaghari, Bhaktapur–1. The event brought together renowned musicians, emerging artists, students, teachers, music lovers and well-wishers to celebrate the enduring musical legacy of Arun Thapa.
The Modern School student band presented two of Arun Thapa’s iconic numbers, delivering performances that received enthusiastic applause and appreciation from the audience and distinguished musicians present at the event.
Student of Grade 11, Mr. Piyush Thapa, performed Arun Thapa’s iconic song “Timi Herchau Bhane Yo Chhati Bhitra,” while members of the Modern musical band Mr. Ocean Manandhar, Mr. Asim Thapa, Mr. Sujal Ban, Mr. Pranaya Nagarkoti, Mr. Santosh Bikram Thapa, Mr. Anuj Awal, Mr. Jems Das and Mr. Nirajan Tamang presented “Jati Maya Laye Pani, Jati Kasam Khaye Pani.” Both performances were warmly received by the audience, with the students earning praise for their powerful vocals, musical coordination and confident stage presence.
The performances provided a meaningful opportunity for the younger generation to connect with Arun Thapa’s timeless music while demonstrating the growing musical talent of students at Modern School and College. The enthusiastic response from the audience further highlighted the importance of providing young musicians with platforms to perform alongside established artists.
The program featured tribute performances by distinguished singers and musicians associated with Bhaktapur Sangeetik Samaj, who paid musical homage to Arun Thapa by performing some of his memorable compositions.
The event was chaired by Mr. Albert Bajracharya, President of Bhaktapur Sangeetik Samaj, and was graced by legendary Nepali singer Mr. Prakash Shrestha as the Chief Guest. Renowned lyricist Mr. Subash Chandra Dhungel also attended the program, adding further significance to the musical gathering.
Mr. Babu Kaji Kaspal, Founder of Modern School/College, was welcomed as a special guest at the event. Meanwhile, Dr. Anil Kaspal, Principal of Modern School/College, was felicitated by Bhaktapur Sangeetik Samaj in recognition of his achievement of a PhD in School Leadership from Lincoln University, Malaysia.
Mrs. Shashi Kaspal Kayastha, Vice President of Bhaktapur Sangeetik Samaj and Event Coordinator, welcomed the guests and participants through her welcome address. She highlighted the importance of preserving Nepal’s musical heritage while creating opportunities for both established and emerging artists.
Bhaktapur Sangeetik Samaj has been continuously organizing musical programs and tribute events that bring together established singers, musicians and aspiring artists. Through such initiatives, the organization has been providing platforms for emerging talents to showcase their abilities, gain experience and connect with established figures in Nepal’s music sector.
The Arun Thapa memorial program thus became not only a tribute to one of Nepal’s most beloved musical voices but also a platform for celebrating the talents of the next generation. The impressive performances by Modern School students, under the guidance of Mr. Simon Dewapatey, added a youthful energy to the occasion, with their renditions of Arun Thapa’s timeless songs earning appreciation from both the audience and veteran musicians.
The event underscored the importance of passing Nepal’s rich musical heritage from one generation to another, allowing young artists to learn, perform and keep the timeless legacy of legendary musicians such as Arun Thapa alive.