Sur Sudha is a renowned music group from Nepal that has been spreading the message of peace and with the aim to promote Nepal and Nepalese through their music for over three decades.
The group was founded by Surendra Shrestha, a passionate musician who has dedicated his life to promoting peace and harmony through his creative endeavors. Despite his advanced education of Masters Degree in eastern classical music, Surendra was determined to create boundless music that could touch the hearts of people from all walks of life globally.
Surendra's commitment towards the cause of peace is evident in his music, which blends traditional Nepali music with modern elements to create a unique fusion that appeals to a audience worldwide. Sur Sudha's music is not just entertaining but also has a deeper meaning, inspiring listeners to embrace inner peace and spread positivity in the world.
His dedication to the cause of peace has made him a respected figure in the Nepali music industry, and his contribution to the promotion of peace through Sur Sudha's music is immeasurable.
Sur Sudha is not just a musical group; it is a philosophy that embodies the essence of Nepali culture, tradition and spirituality. Formed in 1989 by Surendra, Sur Sudha was not intended to be just a band, but a thought, an idea, and a feeling that music is an essential part of our lives. The band was not formed with an idea of depending solely on any particular musician.
Surendra’s philosophy while forming the band was based on the belief that music should represent the diversity and unity of Nepali culture. Sur Sudha's music is not just about entertainment, but it is also about promoting peace, unity, and harmony among people from different backgrounds. Sur Sudha's musical philosophy emphasizes quality and creativity.
One of the unique aspects of Sur Sudha's music is that it represents all genres of Nepali music, from classical to folk to fusion. The name Sur Sudha was given by the late Bhairav Nath Rimal, and the group has evolved over the years.
Sur Sudha’s contributing members to the date include Tara Bir Singh Tuladhar, Prem Rana Autari , Bijay Baidhya, Stayendra Tuladhar, Rajeev Shrestha and Bharat Shrestha.
The band also created history by recording Nepal's first CD. The band started as a musical group, but its experience has been more like a rollercoaster ride. Over the years, the group has seen several changes in its lineup, but its core philosophy remains the same - to create high-quality music that represents the best of Nepali culture. Today, the band comprises of its founder Surendra Shrestha on tabla , Raman Maharjan on Flute , and Bikash Sunar on Guitar. Saraswati Khatri is the lead singer of the group.
The band's aim is to present the best of Nepali classical music to the public, including classical, traditional, and Rag-Ragini music. Sur Sudha's musical repertoire ranges from the plains of Terai to the highest mountains in the world, representing all genres of Nepali music. The group's performances include cultural festivals of Nepal with folk music, as well as fusion and chanting music. In the group's recent foray into spiritual and chanting music, includes their collaboration with the famous Bollywood actress Manisha Koirala on the "Mahamrityunjaya Mantra". The group is also soon going to release Ganesh Stotram Mantra as part of their musical offerings by including well-reputed international musical talents .Sur Sudha's music is not just about preserving the past, but it is also about creating new music that reflects the current social and cultural trends.
The members of Sur Sudha have changed over the years, but the group's core philosophy remains the same. The group is not about any individual member, but it is about the collective effort of all members. The aim is to produce the best quality music that represents the rich diversity of Nepali culture.
Sur Sudha's music is also not limited to any particular religion or culture, but it embodies both Buddhism and Hinduism, bringing people from all walks of life together. Sur Sudha is not just a musical group; it is a movement, representing the diversity and unity of Nepali culture. The group has performed in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Japan, Morocco, Tunisia, China and several European nations multiple times. Their performances have been praised for their ability to transport listeners to the serene landscapes of Nepal, evoking images of the country's snow-capped mountains, lush green forests, and flowing rivers.
Apart from their live performances, Sur Sudha has also released several albums that have been well-received by music lovers around the world including first ever CD in Nepal. These albums showcase the group's versatility, with each track featuring a different instrument or style of Nepalese classical music.
Sur Sudha's role in cultural diplomacy cannot be understated. In an era where cultural exchanges have become increasingly important, the group has played a key role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and dialogue. By showcasing Nepalese classical music, they have been able to break down cultural barriers and build bridges between different communities. Their music has been used in various cultural events, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites inauguration ceremony in Nepal, where they performed for several foreign dignitaries.
The group has also been involved in various philanthropic activities, including providing assistance to the victims of the devastating earthquake that struck Nepal in 2015. Through their music, they have been able to raise awareness about the plight of the Nepalese people and the need for continued support.
In conclusion, Sur Sudha has been a vital force in promoting Nepalese classical music and culture to the world. Through their music, they have been able to break down cultural barriers, promote cross-cultural understanding and dialogue, and raise awareness about social and environmental issues. Their music is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Nepal and serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting cultural diversity.
Sur Sudha's legacy is not just in the music they create but in the way they create it. They are an inspiration to aspiring musicians and music lovers alike, and their goal is to continue to create music that is timeless and speaks to the heart of Nepali culture for generations to come.