Kandara Band set to release new song “Hunecha: The Song of Hope”
Established 32 years ago in Pokhara, the band not only showcased a new era of melody and sweetness but also created an unprecedented moment in Kathmandu with their first-ever performance in the city.
KATHMANDU: On the night of (Nov 9, Kathmandu’s Thamel saw the legendary Kandara Band make a historic mark in the music scene.
Established 32 years ago in Pokhara, the band not only showcased a new era of melody and sweetness but also created an unprecedented moment in Kathmandu with their first-ever performance in the city.
In celebration of the upcoming year 2025, Kandara is preparing to release a new song titled “Hunecha: The Song of Hope.” The song’s lyrics and music were composed by the band’s drummer, Sunil Thapa.
This song is aimed at delivering a message of hope and inspiration. It emphasizes the need for every individual to improve their thoughts, behavior, and actions in order to bring about positive changes in the country.
The song has already received best wishes for its success from Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who even signed a letter of support. The upcoming release is expected to mark another golden chapter in the band’s musical journey.
Kandara’s hits like “Lekki He Maya,” “Bideshiyera Gayin Uni,” “Chanchale Kanchhiko,” “Bhedi Gothaima,” “Hongkong Pokhara,” “Tagaroma Rumal,” and “Bichara Ma” have all made a unique imprint in Nepali music by blending traditional folk pop with modern styles. The band has successfully maintained its originality while gaining a distinctive position among listeners.
Currently, Kandara’s lineup consists of Vivek Shrestha on vocals, Sunil Thapa on drums, Dev Lama on lead guitar, Pankaj Jha on bass guitar, Avinash Gayak on madal, and Umesh Thapa on keyboard. Notably, Sunil Thapa has been a member since the band’s inception.
Kandara has recently completed a series of successful performances in Gandaki, Koshi, and Bagmati Provinces as part of their Nepal tour, aimed at promoting domestic and international tourism under the slogan “Pahila Gharadesh Ani Pardesh” (First Country, Then Abroad).
Starting in Jan 2025, Kandara will begin its world tour with a performance at London’s iconic O2 Arena, Indigo. The band will also perform in Dubai, and in March-April, they will tour Australia and New Zealand.
In May, they will perform in the USA, followed by shows in Canada in June, and in various European countries during July-August.
The band is also scheduled to perform in Japan in August-September, and in Qatar and Singapore as well.
Having celebrated 32 years of musical history, Kandara continues to enrich its legacy by presenting a fusion of folk-pop style and modern music.
Lead vocalist Vivek Shrestha, who was active abroad for 14 years, has returned to infuse the band with fresh energy and is driving its forward momentum.
The upcoming release of “Hunecha: The Song of Hope” is expected to strengthen the band’s musical identity with melody and sweetness, resonating deeply with Nepali communities worldwide, spreading positive energy and reinforcing their cultural impact.
