Many young talents have emerged in the music scene. Among those attracting widespread attention is Panthare Maili, also known as Dipa Suhang, whose voice possesses remarkable power. Those who hear her sing are full of praise.
Born to father Karna Bahadur and mother Devi Maya Pandhak in Subhang, Hilihang Rural Municipality–5, in far-eastern Nepal, Suhang moved to Kathmandu after completing her higher secondary education following her School Leaving Certificate (SLC). Her musical journey, however, began before she arrived in the capital. Her career took flight after she became the second runner-up in the second season of Limbuwan Idol, a popular singing competition in eastern Nepal.
Having now sung more than 150 songs, Suhang says, “I kept count until I had sung around a hundred songs, but after that, I stopped counting. Some have been loved by many listeners. Many have been made into music videos, and many have been released, while some have remained unheard after recording.” Reflecting on her work, she noted that much of her repertoire consists of modern, contemporary folk and traditional folk songs.
Blessed with a captivating voice, Suhang has also sung in other languages. Her repertoire includes half a dozen Limbu-language songs, several Palam songs, and, notably, songs in the Kulung Rai language. Having established herself as a versatile singer, she remains busy in the music industry.
Her songs include “Amikin Simsim Yakthung Samlo,” “Thibong Yakthungsa,” “Yakthungba Ani Lachha Ro” and “Mimjiphung Palam.” She has lent her voice to lyrics by Subarna Nembang and Sanu Subba, with music by singer-composers Raju Angdembe and Ashok Lohorung. Her Kulung-language song “Kai Kulu” has also attracted considerable attention.
With an extensive repertoire in the Khas Nepali language, she has worked with numerous lyricists and composers. She named more than a dozen collaborators, including Narayan Rayamajhi, Arjun Pokhrel, Dambar Nepali, Khagendra Yakso and Rajshukra Limbu.
Her female vocal version of the popular song “Aago Piyera Bachne” has been watched and enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of people. Her song “Chasok Phirda” brings joy whenever the Chasok Tangnam festival comes around, while “Khotange Maya,” her duet with Rajesh Payal Rai, has also been warmly received. Around 70 music videos featuring Suhang’s vocals are currently available on YouTube and Facebook.
For Suhang, singing is a devoted pursuit. She is among the fortunate singers to have achieved considerable success within a short period. Alongside her exceptional singing, her beauty and grace have helped her win a place in the hearts of listeners, audiences and well-wishers.
Following performances in Hong Kong, Qatar and South Korea, she is now busy performing in the UK. She has already appeared at more than 20 musical events across the country, with approximately a dozen more reportedly scheduled.
Singing “Khotange Maya” and following love to the UK, Panthare Maili Dipa Suhang has enchanted many with her songs. When romance might bring her together with a partner remains unknown. Wishes that it might happen today, tomorrow or during this very visit have already been expressed, and hints have begun to emerge. Whatever happens, her musical flight must continue unhindered. She must keep soaring and reaching new heights.
As yesterday and today, may tomorrow and all the days ahead bring the very best to Panthare Maili.
– Biswasdip TIGELA
