Kuma Sagar


Kuma Sagar is a Nepali singer, songwriter, and music producer known for blending traditional Newa music elements with contemporary styles. He gained attention in the Nepali music scene through independently produced songs and live performances that incorporate indigenous instruments and melodies. He is especially popular among the Gen-Z audience of Nepal and is currently involved in a musical group called Kuma Sagar and the Khwopaa Band.
Kuma Sagar believes that Nepali music is evolving beyond the boundaries of ethnicity, with distinctions such as Newar, Tamang, or Magar becoming less significant in the broader musical landscape.

Early life and background

Kuma Sagar was born and raised in Bhaktapur, Nepal a city known for its rich Newa cultural heritage. From an early age, he was exposed to traditional Newa music through community gatherings such as dapha bhajan sessions, where he learned about local instruments and devotional music. Despite facing familial and societal resistance towards pursuing music as a career, he continued to develop his skills independently. This pursuit occasionally led to familial and social friction, especially as his early experiments in music clashed with the expectations of his community.
In early days, he faced opposition from his parents, who insisted on formal education over his passion for music. His interest and passion towards music led to complaints from the neighbors, and he was even sent to 'Home Rehab' due to his rebellious behavior.

Education

He dropped out of formal education in Grade 9. Later, he resumed his studies through an open school and completed the Secondary Education Examination with good marks. He also completed his Plus Two education.

Career

Sagar began his professional musical journey with the song "Bajeko Bajang", which he recorded and edited himself using basic tools during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. The track was noted for its integration of traditional Newa sounds with modern production. His participation in the 2019 season of The Voice of Nepal provided him with national exposure, although he did not advance to the final rounds. Following this, he released several songs including "Oh Champa" and "Chahare Sari", which have been recognized for their effort to modernize traditional tunes. His song "Oh Champa," often featured during jatras, exemplifies his ability to connect traditional themes with present-day audiences. A pivotal moment in Kuma's journey occurred during a trek to Gosainkunda, where the physical distance from home evoked a deep emotional longing. This feeling became the catalyst for his breakout song, "A Mai Re." The song, imbued with heartfelt nostalgia and cultural resonance, quickly gained popularity, earning over 4.5 million views on YouTube. Lines such as "Para bata sunda timro tyo boli mutu mai laagera manai ramaayo re" capture the essence of emotional and physical distance, themes that are prevalent in much of his work.
His music often features traditional Newa instruments like the Dha, Bhusyah, and Khing, alongside guitar, bass, and electronic elements.

Kuma Sagar and the Kwopaa Band current band members

  • Kuma Sagar : Lead vocalist and guitarist
  • Roj Man Maharjan: Percussionist
  • Aman Mali: Flutist
  • Roshik Jadhari: Sarangi
  • BK Prajapati: Instrumentalist
  • Suman Gaida: Lead Guitarist
  • Roshan Bajracharya: Bassist
  • Prabin Lakhaju: Percussionist

Awards and recognition

  • Kuma Sagar and the Kwopaa Band received best band award at the National Music Award 2081.
  • Kuma Sagar selected as influential person under 40 of 2082.

Style and themes

Kuma Sagar's musical style is characterized by a fusion of folk and contemporary elements. His lyrics often reflect themes of cultural identity, daily life, and spirituality. He is associated with efforts to preserve and promote Newa music among younger audiences through digital platforms and performances.

Discography

  • Sara Sara – Dubera Herda
  • Chharka Dheba
  • Rukri Ma
  • Rara Talaima – featuring The Khwopa
  • Dharke Jhola – featuring Suren Lama
  • Furfuri
  • Chahare Sari
  • Oh Champa – Tarani Janani
  • Harey
  • A Mai Re
  • Chameli Phoola
  • MaleGaun
  • Sath Deuna
  • Bajeko Bajang – his debut track, recorded during the COVID-19 lockdown

Performances and reception

Sagar has performed both within Nepal and internationally, including concerts in Australia, UK & Japan. Audience responses to his performances have generally been positive, particularly among listeners interested in cultural and heritage-based music. His work has also been discussed in Nepali media for its independent and experimental approach to music production.
In 2025, Kuma Sagar and the Khwopa Band made history during their "Hawako Lahar Sangai Australia Tour," becoming the first Nepali act to perform at Sydney's iconic Enmore Theatre and to record live at the prestigious Art Gallery of New South Wales.
Kuma Sagar returned to the stage of The voice of Nepal Season 6 after six years, delivering a performance that garnered a standing ovation from all four coaches. Sagar, who initially participated in the second season of the show in 2019, expressed pride in his return to the platform.

International concert tours

Personal life

He is married to Sujana Chikabanjar, and they have a daughter.

Controversy

In early 2025, a public debate emerged following comments made in a podcast episode hosted by Sushant Pradhan. The episode featured comedians Sajan Shrestha, Utsav Sapkota, and Sujan Zimba, who discussed various topics, including Nepali music and artists. During the episode, Sajan Shrestha mimicked the singing style of Kuma Sagar—a singer known for his unique voice and accent that reflects his Newar heritage. Some of the remarks made during the discussion were perceived by sections of the public as insensitive, particularly in how they addressed the Newari accent.