Renowned Nepali singer, composer, lyricist, and playwright Ratna Behoshi has passed away at the age of 91.

Also known as Ratna Bajracharya, he significantly contributed to Nepali and Nepal Bhasa music for over six decades.

He died on Wednesday.

A Six-Decade Musical Journey

Behoshi was a talented singer, composer, and playwright who greatly enriched Nepal’s music landscape.

He had a historic connection with Radio Nepal, where he passed the voice screening test in 1956 and was hired on the same day.

Out of 17 candidates, he emerged as the solo singer for the station, dedicating decades to Nepali music.

Survived by two sons, Anand and Chetan, and a daughter, Munu Bajracharya, he will be remembered for iconic songs like “Malai Mero Deshko Sindoor Launa Man Chha,” performed with Bharati Upadhyay, and “Su Madugu Taak Swoya Wa,” presented with the legendary Tirath Kumari Thapa.

He played a vital role in blending Nepali and Nepal Bhasa music, with his contributions still resonating today.

Recognized for His Contributions to Nepali Music

Before his passing, Behoshi’s work in Nepali and Nepal Bhasa music was widely recognized.

In 2025, on his 90th birthday, he received the Nepal Ratna award for his exceptional role in promoting these musical traditions.

A Multifaceted Artist

Born and raised in Bhimchhal, Patan, he later moved to Bhol Dhoka.

As a multi-talented artist, he made significant contributions to Nepali music as a lyricist, playwright, singer, and composer.

His body will be placed at Nepal Bhasa Manka Khala, Tyagal, for public farewell before his final rites at Pashupati Aryaghat on Wednesday.

With his passing, Nepal mourns the loss of an iconic figure instrumental in the early development of radio and music in the country.