Introduction

The Sangitmala Team presents a resonant Nepalese melody in English that resonates with the essence of the homeland. This composition by the talented Prakash Saput, titled "Galbandi Chyatiyo Timile Tanera Bolauna Khojeko Aafnai Thanera," exemplifies the enduring ability of music to bridge geographical distances and elicit a sense of belonging. The melody unfolds as a tapestry of cultural expression and unity, enriched by the voices of gifted performers such as Tika Sanu, Bhawana Budha Magar,  Hima B.K, Dhanmaaya Nepali,   Dil Karki, Prem Dhungana, and Nishant BK.

This artistic offering, which debuted on December 5, 2021, garnered an impressive 259,556 views, a testimony to its resonance within the audience's souls presented as part of a live program, the undertaking was facilitated by a skilled team that included hosts Tika Sanu, Kamal Sargam, and Kalpana Dahal, as well as a group of outstanding vocalists.

The melody, at its essence, echoes a sentiment that transcends borders and encapsulates the natural grandeur of Nepal's landscape. As the lyrics, "Nepal is a beautiful gift from nature," resound, the melody depicts the essence of the country's breathtaking topography. The refrain, "Unity is diversity is our feature," is a profound reminder of Nepal's cultural wealth, where numerous ethnicities and traditions coexist harmoniously.

I examine this musical's geographical, historical, cultural, and socioeconomic dimensions in the following analysis. Through a scholarly prism, I  untangle the nuanced narratives woven into this melodic tapestry, recognizing its strengths and identifying areas where its depiction of Nepal's complexity may merit additional consideration. This attempt allows us to appreciate the song's resonance and potential to encourage a deeper engagement with Nepal's multifaceted identity.

Geographical Context

Nepal, a landlocked nation between the formidable territories of India and China, displays an entrancing tableau of diverse geographical characteristics. This musical composition aims to capture the nuances of Nepal's geographical tapestry by alluding to elevated forms such as mountains, the meandering grace of rivers, and the undulating grace of hills. However, prudence dictates a cautious approach to ensure Nepal is not reduced to a picturesque backdrop, ministering solely to tourism demands. Consistently emphasizing Nepal as a manifestation of nature's majesty, the song serves as a conduit for global appreciation of its inherent beauty. The strategic use of geographical features such as mountains, rivers, and hills is intended to position Nepal as an alluring tourist destination. While the song effectively introduces the audience to Nepal's natural beauty, it omits the sociopolitical complexities that form the country's identity. Linguistically, the song cleverly incorporates Nepali terminology into its English verses, an indication of linguistic hybridity or a deliberate attempt to increase accessibility to international audiences at the expense of local idiomatic richness. Notably, the omission of Nepal's significant environmental challenges, such as deforestation and the devastating effects of climate change on its glaciers, is a cause for concern.

Historical and Cultural Context

 The historical tapestry of Nepal, a mosaic of diverse ethnic groups influenced by neighboring civilizations, is rich. The mention of "Bir Gorkhali" inspires nationalistic pride and pays tribute to the valor of Gurkha soldiers. The epithet "Land of Buddha" evokes the sanctity of Lumbini, the location where Siddhartha Gautama was born. Incorporating "Bir Gorkhali" and references to the "land of Buddha" emphasize Nepal's spiritual and historical significance. Indigenous customs such as "Chautari" and traditional cuisine such as "Dhido Gundruk" highlight the nation's cultural diversity.

Nonetheless, oversimplification is risky, as the song's emphasis on unified representation may diminish Nepal's intricate cultural tapestry. While sincere in its attempt to capture Nepal's historical essence, the song remains reticent on complex historical narratives, such as a decade-long civil war and ongoing sociopolitical unrest. Folk music and dance are celebrated as traditions and sources of pride, but the cultural group referred to as 'folk' remains ambiguous.

The song skillfully incorporates Nepali terms into its English lyrics, balancing global accessibility and preserving Nepal's cultural resonance. The mantra "Unity is diversity is our characteristic" encapsulates the multifaceted cultural heritage of Nepal. Underneath this harmonizing surface, however, an unspoken undercurrent of oversimplification threatens to obscure the vibrant threads of cultural diversity. While the melody acknowledges linguistic and religious diversity, it fails to explore the subtle complexities of these domains.

Religious and Philosophical Context

 Nepal's religious landscape, an amalgamation of predominantly Hinduism with the coexistence of Buddhism, Islam, and indigenous beliefs, provides the context for expressing "Humanism mission and vision, Ultimate aim of our religion." This selection of terms is intended to emphasize Nepal's history of religious tolerance. However, the historical context of religious conflicts and ongoing struggles for the rights of religious minorities has no place in the song's narrative.

Economic Context

The terms "cottage industry" and "organic food" indicate that agriculture and small-scale industries dominate Nepal's economy. However, these references fail to consider Nepal's economic complexities, which include pervasive poverty, a sluggish rate of industrialization, and a substantial reliance on remittances.

The Exchange of Voices

A lively exchange of voices enriches the song's narrative, each offering a unique perspective on Nepal's multifaceted identity. As the youngster exclaims, "Hey, welcome, human beings of the world!" a cordial invitation is extended to embrace the splendor of Nepal's opulent tapestry. This sentiment is complemented by the girl, who emphasizes the natural beauty of Nepal's initial impressions and the captivating allure of its landscapes.

The boy's poetic description of Nepal's elements - beaming mountains, streaming rivers, and tranquil waterfalls - vividly depicts the country's natural beauty. The child participates in celebrating the forest melodies and the Lophophorus, Nepal's national bird. The boy's description of the significance of the "Koili chari," a cherished melody, and the "Chirab chirab" reveals the cultural wealth of Nepal. The sound of birdsong emanating from colonies.

Both the boy and the girl articulate eloquently Nepal's hospitality and cultural diversity, drawing attention to the hospitable "Chautari" and the variety of greeting traditions. The narrative of Nepal's wealth includes references to local and organic food, the valor of Bir Gorkhali soldiers, and the spiritual significance of Lumbini.

The girl proclaims Nepal to be a land of meditation and enlightenment, whereas the boy describes Nepal as a place where civility is a civilizing force. The song's lyrics acknowledge the simplicity and uniqueness of Nepal's way of life. The boy and girl jointly acknowledge Nepal's good fortune and the significance of its music, highlighting the country's allure and diversity.

The tapestry of voices culminates in celebrating Nepal's diversity, from its multilingual and multicultural characteristics to its distinct architecture. The melody resonates with the inclusive sentiment of unity and diversity that defines Nepal's identity. Notably, the girl affirms that Nepal's fundamental mission and vision are rooted in humanism, and its ultimate goal is unity, reinforcing the song's central message.

Conclusion

The song's climax reverberates with a transcendental sentiment that encapsulates the inherent beauty of Nepal's natural landscapes. As the lyrics resound, "Nepal is a beautiful gift from nature," the melody artistically depicts the essence of the country's breathtaking geography. The repeated refrain, "Unity is diversity is our feature," is a poignant reminder of Nepal's cultural diversity, where numerous ethnicities and traditions coexist harmoniously. In an era characterized by the intricate interplay of globalization and cultural interconnectedness, it is undeniable that artistic expression can serve as a mirror reflecting a nation's identity, values, and aspirations. In this context, the present lyrical composition arises as a melodious paean, an artistic endeavor that attempts to capture Nepal's multifaceted essence. This composition ventures on a lyrical journey, traversing the intricate contours of Nepal's geographical beauty, historical valor, cultural treasures, and socioeconomic dynamics. However, a thorough and meticulous analysis is required to reveal the harmonious cadence that reverberates throughout its verses and the latent voids that entreat from within its lyrical canvas.

Evident in its content is the depiction of a utopian Nepal, which, while promoting tourism and igniting a spark of nationalistic pride, may disregard the intricate sociopolitical and economic nuances woven into the nation's fabric. As a preliminary platform, the song's artistry may lose the chance to explore the profound complexity that characterizes Nepal's diverse identity. 

(A presentation of Nepali Dohari and melody in the English language By Tika Sanu and Team )