Final tribute to singer & composer Acharya at NAMUDA premises (photos)

KATHMANDU: As a tribute to senior singer and musician Bhaktaraj Acharya, his mortal remains have been kept at the Nepal Music and Drama Foundation (NAMUDA).

The tributes, which began with the chancellor of the institute, Nisha Sharma, delivering flower tributes, are still ongoing.

People from the music industry and well-wishers have gathered at the institution to pay respect to him.

Kushma Mahara, Prestige Member Secretary, stated that tributes had been given since 11 a.m. by well-wishers, personalities, and talents in the sphere of singing and music.

He further stated that after some time, high-ranking officials from the Nepalese government, including Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Sudan Kirati, will pay their respects. He will be cremated at Pashupati Aryaghat today.

Acharya, who received the Bhajan Shiromani title, died on Monday at the age of 82 while being transported to Mediciti Hospital in Lalitpur.

He was transported to the hospital yesterday around 4 p.m. after his oxygen level dropped.

Nisha Sharma, the institution’s chancellor, stated that a legacy of the song-music sector has fallen, and its absence would be felt indefinitely.

Acharya has given voice and music in about 400 songs including ‘Mutu Jalirahecha’, ‘Jati Chot Dinchau’, ‘Jahan Chhan Buddhaka Aankha’, ‘Hajar Sapana Haruko’, ‘Maya Meri Sanjh Bihaan’, ‘Hajar Aankha Herne’. Singer Acharya’s two sons Sathyaraj and Swaroopraj are also in the music industry.

Preparations have been made for his farewell with national honours.

Born in Dhankuta in 1999, Acharya has made a significant contribution to Nepali Sugam music.