Kulendra Bishwakarma is more than just a celebrated name in Nepali folk music - he is a dedicated social worker whose songs and actions touch lives both on and off the stage.
Born in the remote Ratamata village of Mahashila Rural Municipality, Parbat district, Kulendra moved to Kathmandu years ago with dreams and determination. Over the course of his career, he has recorded more than 2,500 songs, many of which reflect the soul of Nepali culture and tradition.
Yet, beyond music, Kulendra has been quietly changing lives by helping the underprivileged in his home district and the capital.
Kulendra is a man deeply committed to uplifting others. He's been a quiet force behind educational initiatives, donating computers and school supplies to children in remote areas of Parbat. At Mahashila Primary School in Parbat, he has donated computers and educational supplies, and he regularly supports disadvantaged children with stationery and other essentials. In Kathmandu, Kulendra extends his compassion by assisting those in distress, performing at events without charge, and donating his earnings to social causes. His outreach has even reached marginalized communities such as the Chepangs.
His rise in music was unconventional. Originally aiming to work abroad, a failed visa attempt redirected his path toward folk singing. His debut album in 2005, Ke Chha Halchal, introduced him alongside voices like Good Bahadur and Krishna Pariyar, and his unique style soon earned him a dedicated following.
His second song Pashchim Purba Ko... established him as a professional singer, after which he began recording five to seven songs in a single day. Some of his most popular songs include Saal Ko Paat Ko Tapari Huni, Dandai Furke Sallo, Jimmal Bako Aangnima, Rumal Hallai Hallai, Ma Ni Ustai, Aankhai Ma Baseko Mayalu, Najau Hai Sanu Panderima, Jogiko Bhesaima, Phoolko Choli, Phool Hau Timi, Junkiiri, Phool Phulyo Jaisara, Khandai Nakhako Bish, and Launchha Maya.
Among these, Saal Ko Paat Ko Tapari Huni was a phenomenon, ruling the Nepali folk scene for a time. It remains the first Nepali folk duet song to surpass 100 million views on YouTube, now with over 102 million views.
Despite international acclaim - performing for Nepali communities from Bahrain to the US, Canada, Australia, and Europe - Kulendra remains deeply rooted in his culture and community.
In recognition of his dual contributions to music and society, the Government of Nepal honored him with the prestigious Prabal Janasewashree medal in 2022, presented by then-President Bidya Devi Bhandari on April 14. Alongside over 2,500 other accolades, this award cements his place not only as an artist but as a compassionate human being.
Music composer and coordinator Binod Bajureli describes him as a calm, dignified, self-respecting artist and a helpful individual who has carved out a unique identity in Nepali folk music.
Kulendra has served as a judge for the Himalaya Lok Star and Nepal Lok Star competitions, coming long way from earning Rs 500 for his first recorded song in Kathmandu.
Kulendra hopes to continue crafting timeless, patriotic songs that inspire generations, believing that music's true power lies in its ability to unite and uplift.
