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Within the vibrant landscape of Nepali music, few figures command the same level of admiration and fond remembrance as Aruna Lama, lovingly hailed as the Melody Queen (Swar Samrajni). Born on September 9, 1945, amidst the enchanting vistas of Darjeeling, India, her story is more than a mere testament to musical talent; it is a narrative woven with threads of resilience and unwavering resolve.
Aruna Lama's journey into the world of music began at the tender age of seven, spurred by the encouragement of her uncle, C.B. Lama. Her innate talent quickly became apparent, and by the age of 11, she had already clinched a music competition organized by the Gorkha Dukha Niwarak Sammelan. Despite her burgeoning musical talent, Aruna prioritized her education, completing her graduation in arts from Darjeeling Government College.
In 1961, audiences were enchanted by the celestial voice of Aruna Lama when she debuted with a song crafted by the esteemed Amber Gurung, with lyrics penned by Bhupi Sherchan. This pivotal moment heralded the start of a legendary career, propelling Aruna Lama to iconic status within the Nepali music scene. I had the privilege of being among the captivated spectators at two of her concerts—one held at the City Hall of Biratnagar and another at the Academy Hall of Kathmandu—during the early eighties.
Nevertheless, Aruna's journey was marked by adversity. In 1974, tragedy struck with the loss of her beloved husband, Sharan Pradhan, a gifted singer, and musician. This left her to bear the weight of raising two children on her own. Despite this profound personal loss, Aruna Lama's unyielding spirit propelled her onward, as she persisted in pursuing her musical passion amidst life's challenges.
Aruna Lama's contribution to Nepali music is immeasurable. Her voice, with its haunting melodies and poignant lyrics, resonated with audiences across generations. Some of her timeless classics include "Eh Kancha Malai Sunko Tara," "Phool Lai Sodhey," "Pohor Saal Khusi Phatyo," and "Nepali Gaurav Garchau Afnaipanma," among countless others. Her soul-stirring renditions captured the essence of Nepali culture and identity, earning her accolades and adoration from fans far and wide.
Aruna Lama, often hailed as the "Nightingale of the Hills," left an indelible mark on the musical landscape of Nepal and India with her ethereal voice and profound talent. Her contributions to music were not only celebrated but also acknowledged through numerous prestigious awards and accolades, underscoring her exceptional skill and dedication to her craft.
Throughout her illustrious career, Aruna Lama graced audiences with heartwarming performances at notable events such as Raag Rajat in Gorkha Rangamanch, Darjeeling, and Arunanjali at Pragya Bhawan, Kathmandu. Her captivating renditions left audiences spellbound, earning her recognition as a musical luminary.
Acknowledged as the "Nightingale of the Hills" by the West Bengal Government, Aruna Lama's talent transcended borders, garnering acclaim and admiration in both Nepal and India. Her remarkable achievements were duly honored with a plethora of awards, each a testament to her enduring legacy in the music industry.
Among the many accolades bestowed upon her, some of the most notable include the Sangit Puraskar and Sur Sringar Sammelan Puraskar in 1966, which marked the beginning of her journey towards musical stardom. Over the years, she continued to receive recognition for her contributions, including the Mitrasen Puraskar in 1975 and the Dishari Puraskar in 1980, among others.
In her hometown of Darjeeling, Aruna Lama was honored with the prestigious Bhanu Academy Puraskar in 1982, a testament to her profound impact on the cultural heritage of the region. Similarly, in Nepal, she received accolades such as the Nepali Chalchitra Puraskar in 1983 and the Chinnlata Geet Puraskar in 1992, further solidifying her status as a musical icon.
Aruna Lama's musical prowess extended beyond mere recognition; it touched the hearts of audiences far and wide. Her performances at events like Raag Rajat in 1981 showcased her ability to evoke emotion and captivate listeners, leaving an enduring imprint on the cultural landscape.
In addition to her awards, Aruna Lama's legacy is preserved through accolades such as the Gorkha Dakshin Bahu 4th in 1996 and the Swar Kinnari from Sitaram Sahitya Pratisthan, Kathmandu. These honors stand as a testament to her unparalleled talent and enduring impact on the world of music.
Tragically, Aruna Lama's musical journey was cut short on February 4, 1998, when she passed away in New Delhi at the age of 52. Her dead body was brought to Kathmandu for the last rituals. However, her legacy lives on, immortalized in the timeless melodies that continue to enchant listeners today. Her songs are a poignant reminder of her unparalleled talent and unwavering passion for music, ensuring that the Melody Queen's presence is felt in every chord and every verse.
As we reflect on the life and legacy of Aruna Lama, let us remember her not only as a gifted singer but also as a symbol of strength, resilience, and the enduring power of music to transcend boundaries and touch the soul. In the hearts of her fans, the Melody Queen reigns eternal, her voice echoing through the annals of Nepali musical history, a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
(vidhukayastha@gmail.com)
