Kandara’s debut performance takes place in London

Kandara, a band from Pokhara, played its first show in London as part of their “First home, and abroad” campaign.

Over 2,500 people attended Kandara’s historic performance at the legendary Indigo at The O2 on Saturday. The occasion marked a turning point in the band’s musical journey as they celebrated their 32nd anniversary on stage. The O2 evening was both momentous and unforgettable, according to Kandara.

With the help of Nepali musicians, singer Bibek Shrestha enthralled the crowd with almost two hours of captivating live music.

Shrestha sang a number of popular songs, such as Bideshiyera Gaiin Uni, Jindagiko Yo Utsav Ho Bardaan Ishwar Ko, Lekki Hello, Tagaroma Rumal Rakhi, Hong Kong Pokhara, Timi Haase Haasidincha, Maya Mohani Sabailai Lagaaune Sangrila Ko Lek Bhari Fulai Fulkako Basana, Chanchale Kanchhiko, Hey Kasto Thau Ma Aiyo Solti, Fulchowkiko Dandai Ma, Chiso Chiso Hawama, Timi Pari Tyo Gaunma, Roae Fakaula, Ilame Chiyale Miteri Layo, and Balla Talla Bhet Bhako. Following each song, the fans roared for encores.

Nearly 2,800 people attended Kandara’s performance at The O2, according to the event’s organizer, Mamaghar Entertainment. In her final song, Dherai Cha Garnu Swadeshko Sewa Nepali Bannalai by Gopal Yonjan, singer Shrestha urged Nepalis living in the UK to visit their homeland.

“It was a dream come true to perform at a place that has played host to international music icons,” Shrestha said following the triumphant performance. It still feels like a dream to me to sing in this historic hall in front of my Nepali parents, siblings, and sisters.

Bivek Shrestha sings, Sunil Thapa plays drums, Dev Lama plays lead guitar, Pankaj Jha plays bass guitar, Avinash Gayak plays madal, and Umesh Thapa plays keyboard in Kandara’s current lineup. The drummer, Sunil Thapa, has been with the group since its founding.

In 2024 and 2025, Kandara will commemorate its 32-year musical journey with the theme “First home, and abroad.” Beginning with performances in Dubai, Qatar, and Hong Kong in June, the band has revealed their national and international tour itinerary. After that, it will tour in Australia and New Zealand from March to April, the United States from May to June, Canada, several European nations from July to August, and Japan from August to September.

Kandara, which has 32 years of experience in Nepali folk-pop music, keeps the country’s musical legacy alive by introducing young people to a blend of pop and contemporary music.