KATHMANDU: Shanti Thatal, one of the prominent singers in the era of Adhunik music, would grace the Paleti concert series at Nepalaya’s ‘r’ sala in Kalikasthan, on Friday, June 30.

Thatal, also known as the first female film music director, is popular for her compositions in Nepali films such as ‘Paralko Aago’ and ‘Bachna Chahane Haru’. She has also composed music for several creations of Mahakabi Laxmi Prasad Devkota including Muna Madan, Kunjini and Mendo.

“It is unfortunate to see legendary works of legendary musicians remain unnoticed and does not exist in archives. The aim of Paleti has been to archive such creations and save it for future generation. We hope Shanti didi recalls the tunes, and comes back to us to archive it,” said Aavaas, Paleti Coordinator.

“Once she is ready, we will be happy to host another Paleti session with her,” he added.

This Paleti, Thatal is being presented as a composer and her compositions would be performed by Paleti singer Meena Niraula and Sonu Rai, the Darjeeling-based singers who had accompanied Thatal.

“I am glad to be back in Nepal and performing again,” said Thatal.

“Paleti has reconnected the musical cord between Nepal and Darjeeling, which had been abandoned for many years. I am glad they continued to do that,” she added.

She further mentioned, “After retirement, Paleti re-energised me to continue with music. It was in 2006 when I came here to perform and each time it remains a challenge to perform something new.”

“We are humbled to be hosting Shanti didi for the 5th time,” said Aavaas. “Her six decade long dedication and contribution to music is commendable and deserves a celebration. This Paleti will be a celebration of her 6 decades to Nepali music.”

Thatal, a scholar in music, is a graduate of Rabindra Bharati University and would be aided by younger generation singers like Meena Niraula and Sonu Rai along with Paleti team of musicians comprising of Dinesh Regmi on Keyboards, Buddha Lama on Bamboo flutes, Sundar Maharjan on Percussion, Sandesh Maharjan on Tabala and Suraj Pradhan on Guitar.

She had performed un-archive 20 minute long creation during her Paleti performance on 31st August 2012. Paleti’s last edition in May featured singer Bidhan Shrestha.