The Gorkhali Takma Band - Where Art Seeks Humanity

The Gorkhali Takma Band is a famous group of musicians from Nepal. They started in the Gorkha district. The band's name comes from "Gorkhali," which means the people of Gorkha, and "Takma," which means "bravery award" in Nepali. Their main goal is to keep traditional Nepali music alive and make it more interesting by adding new things.

What makes the Gorkhali Takma Band special is how they mix old Nepali instruments like sarangi and madal with new ones like guitar and keyboard. This mix makes their music sound amazing to both older people who like traditional music and younger people who want something new. They play different kinds of songs, from slow ones to fast dance songs. Their music is a mix of beautiful melodies, cool rhythms, and voices that touch the heart, all mixed with great instrument playing.

People from all over the world love the Gorkhali Takma Band because they are so good at what they do. They've played at many music festivals in Nepal and other countries. This gives them a chance to show their special music style to lots of different people and helps people around the world appreciate Nepali culture.

Social Impact: But the Gorkhali Takma Band isn't just about music. They also want to help people, especially those who don't have a lot. They work with groups that help with education, health, and making villages better. Through their music, they want to make a positive difference and make people aware of important issues.

In a world where most music is modern, the Gorkhali Takma Band is working hard to keep the old Nepali music alive. They like trying new things and making different sounds, and this makes them leaders in Nepali music. With their emotional songs and great performances, the Gorkhali Takma Band is making a big impact on both music and society.

 

Atul Raj Neupane (Safic Hop) – Founding Member

Atul Raj Neupane, known as Safic Hop, serves as the founding member of Gorkhali Takma and currently holds the position of Band Leader and Composer/Lead Vocalist within the group. Safic has been an integral part of Gorkhali Takma since its inception in 2013, participating in all their performances in Nepal. Over the past decade, he has earned widespread recognition for his social and peace initiatives in Nepal, garnering appreciation from all segments of society. In addition to his role in Gorkhali Takma, Safic also leads the music division alongside Ajit Neupane and engages in extensive research on Nepali folk music, which involves extensive travel throughout the country.

Binod Bharati, a dedicated bass guitarist, joined Gorkhali Takma in 2021 and is a full-time musician in Nepal.

Ajit Neupane, a versatile artist encompassing film-making, singing, and guitar playing, is also a journalist focusing on child-related issues. Over the past decade, he has actively contributed as a vocalist and guitarist, performing various shows with the band in Nepal.

Sanjeev Tamang, the lead guitarist, became a member of the band in 2019. He was previously fully immersed in music but is currently pursuing higher-level music studies in Japan.

Ravi Raj Ranjit, a skilled percussionist and drummer within the band, specializes in percussion instruments, particularly drums and the traditional Nepali folk percussion instrument known as the madal.

 

Gorkhali Takma Band – Background Overview

Gorkhali Takma Band was established in 2013 by Atul Raj Neupane, also known as Safic Hop, and Ajit Neupane. Following the band’s active involvement in various musical concerts, free music classes, and social initiatives, Ajit and Safic, along with other members, founded a non-profit organization named “Gorkhali Takma Nepal” in the year 2073 B.S., which collaborates closely with the band. Gorkhali Takma Nepal embodies the charitable spirit of the band members. While Gorkhali Takma Band has witnessed numerous members come and go, the name Gorkhali Takma and its popularity have remained steadfast. It has served as a platform for gifted musicians.

In Nepal, where music is yet to become a sustainable profession, long-term commitments from musicians are relatively rare. Safic has played the role of guardian, leader, and is presently the lead vocalist of Gorkhali Takma. With two albums and numerous singles to their credit, Gorkhali Takma has consistently delivered in the market, from their debut “Walking Firiri” released in 2016, to “Sathi” in 2019, “Kathmandu” in 2022, and “Intu Mintu” in 2022. The band’s album “Walking Firiri” included a super hit first song, not only within the country but also internationally. They continue to impress the Nepali music audience with a series of outstanding songs and captivating live performances.

Some songs are freshly recorded, some are from their extensive back catalogue, which Gorkhali Takma believes remains relevant, and a few have been re-arranged and re-recorded. These changes are a result of Ajit and Safic’s journeys to villages, engaging in conversations and raising awareness among students, local communities, teachers, and families. Their aim is to steer individuals in a positive and peaceful direction in a nation grappling with gradual decline following conflicts, political transitions, and significant brain drain issues.

 

Sanat Thapa – Comprehensive Management

Sanat Thapa serves as the Head of Team Finance and holds the position of Band Manager for Gorkhali Takma. Since 2013, Sanat has played a pivotal role in the revival and coordination of Gorkhali Takma.

Jay Neupane – Co-Founder and Production Chief

Jay Neupane co-founded the band and currently serves as the Director and Chief Executive of Production. In addition to his role within the band, he also leverages his expertise as an event production coordinator and oversees various management aspects, including social projects like Project Musical Motivation.

Samuel Chhettri – Technical Expertise

Samuel Chhettri is a professional sound engineer with a specialization in live audio projection for concerts. He has also served as the official editor and audio projection specialist, contributing to the editing of numerous documentary films, concerts, and background audio.

Sushil Sapkota – Videography and Editing Specialist

Sushil Sapkota is a professional videographer and video editor who excels in live video projection for concerts. His expertise extends to videography and editing, enhancing the visual aspect of performances.

 

The Uplifting Musical Legacy of Gorkha Takma Band

“Gorkhali Takma,” a fusion Nepalese folk-rock band, was established in early 2013. This musical endeavor came to fruition when Atul Raj Neupane, known as Safic Hop (his stage name), and Ajit Neupane decided to form their own band after completing their music education at the Nepal Music School and classical music classes at the Indian Cultural Centre. During their early days as bachelor’s students, they interned for Social Work, where both worked as music volunteer teachers for various organizations.

Their journey began with The Ani Foundation, led by the renowned singer Ani Choying Dolma. Later, they extended their work to many children’s homes, particularly within the Kathmandu valley, focusing on shaping the futures of the younger generation. They collaborated with different children’s homes, teaching life skills and various arts, including music, photography, dance, and painting.

Gorkhali Takma Band has not only made a name for itself in the Nepali music scene but has also garnered widespread recognition for its social initiatives, such as Project Musical Motivation, which spans across 77 districts and includes over 500 government schools in Nepal. They bring the joy of live music to children who may not otherwise have the opportunity to experience it due to social, economic, or health-related challenges.

Their “Far, Far Away” storytelling performances introduce young children and their families to the music of individual composers through specially crafted stories and theater, making the music come alive. Gorkhali Takma has been a pioneering force in blending folk melodies into youth-friendly pop and rock formats, with folk melodies remaining at the heart of their music. In addition to folk, their songs reflect contemporary Nepal, capturing its challenges during times of conflict and distress, while also portraying the artist’s vision of hope. The band’s slogan encapsulates their ethos: “Where art seeks humanity.”