Name: Siddhi Sagar Prajapati (Stage Name: Kuma Sagar)
Occupation: Singer, Songwriter, Musician
Date of Birth: Not specified (born and raised in Bhaktapur, Nepal)
Kuma Sagar, born Siddhi Sagar Prajapati, is a prominent Nepali singer-songwriter known for his ability to blend traditional Nepali instruments with contemporary music. His music draws from the rich cultural heritage of the Newa community, combining timeless melodies with modern rhythms. His journey in music is not just about creating songs; it’s about preserving and reviving traditional Nepali sounds for future generations.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Sagar was born and raised in Bhaktapur, a historic city known for its rich cultural traditions. His early exposure to music came through his grandfather, who played the Khin baja (a traditional Newar instrument) at the dafa (a community place for music learning). This exposure to community-based music sparked his love for music at a young age. The evening bhajans and traditional tunes were formative experiences that laid the foundation for his musical career.
At school, Sagar’s first musical performance came when he sang ‘Chikan Ki Pari’ in the 8th grade. While his passion for music grew stronger over time, his journey was not without obstacles. Like many young aspiring artists, Sagar faced opposition from his family, who emphasized education over artistic pursuits. His parents, like many traditional Nepali parents, believed that music was not a stable career choice and discouraged him from following his passion. Despite these challenges, Sagar continued his practice, even facing criticism from neighbors for making “disturbing sounds.”
Struggles and Breakthrough
Sagar’s musical path took a significant turn in 2019 when he received a call from The Voice of Nepal, where he was selected to be a contestant. While he didn’t win the competition, the experience was invaluable. He had the chance to meet professional musicians and learn from seasoned artists, which deeply influenced his approach to music.
Determined to create his own music, Sagar began working independently. With limited resources and no access to a recording studio, he recorded his first song ‘Bajeko Bajang’ using just his mobile phone. This DIY approach was indicative of his resilience and commitment to his craft.
Musical Style and Influence
Kuma Sagar’s music is characterized by its fusion of traditional Nepali instruments and contemporary arrangements. His songs incorporate instruments like Flute Dha, Bhusya, and other traditional Newar instruments, giving his music a unique cultural flavor. Sagar is especially known for revitalizing ancient sounds from the Malla period and infusing them into modern-day music. His songs like ‘Oh Champa’ and ‘Chahare Sari’ celebrate Nepali culture, particularly the music of the Newa community.
Sagar’s creative process involves long hours of practice and experimentation. He often creates prototypes of his songs and shares them with his team for feedback. His team helps refine the lyrics and melodies before the final release. Inspiration can strike at any moment for Sagar—whether he’s walking down the street or riding a bike, he always keeps his ears and mind open for new musical ideas. His passion for music is evident in his dedication; during the lockdown, he worked tirelessly for 24 hours straight, experimenting with traditional instruments and creating music nonstop.
Notable Songs and Achievements
Some of his most well-known songs include:
- ‘A Mai Re’ – This song, which has over 4.5 million views on YouTube, was inspired by Sagar’s longing for his mother while on the Gosainkunda trek. The lyrics, “Para bata sunda tinho tyo boli mutu mai laagera manai ramaayo re” (Hearing your voice from a distance touched my heart, making me happy), beautifully capture the emotions of love and longing.
- ‘Oh Champa’ – A popular Newa song often played during jatras, ‘Oh Champa’ captivated listeners with its vibrant melody and traditional flair.
- ‘Chahare Sari’ – Another hit that blends Newa culture with contemporary music, this track showcases Sagar’s ability to merge the old with the new.
International Recognition and Fan Encounters
Kuma Sagar’s journey took an exciting turn when he performed his first international concert in Australia. To his surprise, the event sold around 500 tickets, surpassing his expectations. This success motivated him to continue his musical endeavors with even greater passion. Sagar has had the opportunity to meet and perform for fans across the world, including a particularly touching encounter with a young fan in Thimi, who had been waiting to meet him for a long time and shed tears of joy when they finally met.
Dedication to Newa Culture
Despite the challenges he has faced, Kuma Sagar remains steadfast in his mission to preserve and promote Newa culture through his music. His songs are not just a form of entertainment but also a cultural statement, aiming to keep the rich musical traditions of Nepal alive. He continues to inspire the next generation of artists and musicians to appreciate and continue the legacy of Newa culture.
As he looks to the future, Sagar plans to release more songs that celebrate Nepal’s diverse culture and musical heritage. His journey has been one of passion, resilience, and deep connection to his roots, making him one of the most distinctive and inspiring voices in Nepali music today.
Conclusion
Kuma Sagar’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. From recording songs on a mobile phone to becoming a celebrated artist, his journey has been nothing short of inspiring. With his deep commitment to both his craft and his cultural heritage, Sagar is sure to remain a prominent figure in the Nepali music industry for years to come.