Amrit Gurung, born in 1968 in the village of Mulpani near Pokhara, Nepal, is a distinguished Nepali musician, singer, songwriter, photographer, filmmaker, and traveler. He is best known as the lead vocalist and founding member of the folk rock band Nepathya, which was established in the early 1990s.

Early Life and Musical Journey:

Gurung’s upbringing in the rural landscapes of Nepal deeply influenced his artistic sensibilities. A passionate traveler, he has trekked across 70 of Nepal’s 75 districts, immersing himself in diverse cultures and collecting folk lyrics and music. This extensive exploration has been instrumental in shaping Nepathya’s unique blend of traditional Nepali folk music with contemporary rock elements.

Career with Nepathya:

Under Gurung’s leadership, Nepathya has released numerous albums and songs that resonate with themes of peace, justice, and nature. The band’s music often incorporates dialects from rural Nepal, reflecting Gurung’s commitment to preserving and promoting indigenous sounds. Some of their most acclaimed songs include “Resham,” “Yo Jindagani,” and “Udayo Relaile.”

International Performances:

Nepathya has achieved significant milestones on the global stage. Notably, they became the first Nepali band to perform at London’s Wembley Arena on August 3, 2013, marking a historic event for Nepali music.

The band has also toured countries such as the United States, Australia, Japan, Israel, Germany, Finland, and India, introducing Nepali folk rock to international audiences.

Awards and Achievements:

While specific awards are not extensively documented, Gurung’s contributions have been widely recognized. He was honored by the Asia Society as part of their Class of 2009 for his efforts in using music and photography to spread messages of peace.

Additionally, he has been acknowledged for his role in promoting Nepali culture and music both domestically and internationally.

In recent years, Gurung has returned to his ancestral village of Mulpani, embracing a modest lifestyle close to nature. He engages in farming and continues to draw inspiration from the rural environment, which profoundly influences his music and artistic endeavors.

Amrit Gurung’s dedication to preserving Nepali folk traditions while innovatively blending them with contemporary music has solidified his status as a cultural icon in Nepal. His work with Nepathya continues to inspire and resonate with audiences both within Nepal and around the world.