KATHMANDU: Kunti Moktan’s name resonates as a cherished melody in the realm of Nepali music, with her tunes becoming the soundtrack to many Nepali mornings.
Whether it’s the playful cadence of a children’s song at a school anniversary or the patriotic notes of a national anthem during a festival, Kunti’s voice is omnipresent, captivating three generations within a household.
Hailing from an ordinary family in Darjeeling 61 years ago, Kunti has contributed her voice to over 600 songs, solidifying her status among the esteemed artists of Nepali music.
Despite facing challenges, Kunti’s dedication to her craft has made her a beloved figure in the industry.
A graduate of Darjeeling, Kunti pursued her passion for music by attaining a ‘B-Muse’ degree.
However, her musical journey was not without hurdles, as she recounts the poignant moment when her father, disapproving of her first performance, vowed never to participate in her musical endeavors.
The story of Kunti’s decision to make Nepal her permanent home, coinciding with King Birendra’s 39th birthday, unfolds as a testament to her deep connection with the country.
Reflecting on her roots, Kunti acknowledges the prevailing desire for daughters to excel in education and secure a good household, even as she pursued her passion for music against societal expectations.
In a candid revelation of her life’s peaks and valleys, Kunti unveils the narrative behind the rejection of her song ‘Maathi Maathi Sailunge’ by a company—a track that later became a best-seller spanning two decades.
Kunti Moktan: A Voice Awarded for Singing
Kunti’s love affair with music began in her childhood, earning her recognition as a singer in her village even before reaching fifth grade. School competitions solidified her reputation, and by the time she reached Grade 6 at St. Xavier’s in Darjeeling, she was already a ‘star’ in her village.
Participating in a project competition at Gorabari College marked a turning point, boosting her self-confidence in music. Kunti reminisces, “The competition at Gorabari College was my first outside my village. It made me realize that I could showcase my talent beyond the confines of my hometown.”
Reflecting on those early years, she recalls embarking on her musical education around the same time, laying the foundation for a remarkable journey in the world of Nepali music.
Darjeeling Star Resonates After Radio Break
As Kunti Moktan advanced in age, her dual pursuit of education and music intensified. Following her triumphant victory in a college competition, her reputation as a village singer soared.
A pivotal moment came when she, at the age of 15, seized the opportunity to sing on ‘All India Radio Kurseong,’ an event orchestrated by music guru Purnakumar Rai (Babri).
Recounting the experience, she reflects, “I had to perform 15 songs during the radio audition, and 14 radio stations granted my wish. Guru Purnakumar prepared me for that.”
With five recorded folk songs, Kunti’s popularity skyrocketed, transforming her into a star in Darjeeling.
The radio frenzy of the time only amplified her presence, and she vividly recalls sharing the airwaves with Guru Purnakumar, further elevating her stature.
Nepal Beckons: A Musical Sojourn at the King’s Invitation
Kunti’s talent had garnered attention leading her to share the stage with Nepali senior artists during musical performances in Darjeeling.
Recognized by luminaries such as Narayan Gopal, Aruna Lama, and Mira Rana, Kunti’s musical journey reached a turning point.
In 1980, on King Birendra’s 39th birthday, a grand musical spectacle unfolded at the Rastriya Naach Ghar in Kathmandu.
Narayan Gopal, as the General Manager of Rastriya Nach Ghar, extended an invitation to Kunti, marking a significant moment in her career.
Recalling the event, she shares, “Many senior artists from Darjeeling were invited, and Narayan Gopal Dai, being the general manager, also called me.” The VIP showcase lasted a week, leaving a lasting impression on the participants.
In essence, Kunti’s journey became a testament to resilience and determination—a path shaped by karma and an unwavering dedication to her musical calling.
Following the success of the program, Kunti had the chance to record her first song for Radio Nepal – “Kahile Kaahi Malai Pani Heri Deu Hai Farkera…”
Radio Nepal’s Return and the Smile on Her Father’s Face
Despite being raised in a typical family where traditional norms prevailed, Kunti’s early foray into music was met with hesitant approval.
However, her journey, including the significant milestone of singing for Radio Nepal, managed to quell any reservations her family may have harbored.
Reflecting on her roots, Kunti acknowledges the prevailing desire for daughters to excel in education and secure a good household, even as she pursued her passion for music against societal expectations.
Family Strife and Musical Resilience
Kunti recounts a heated exchange with her father after a program where conflicting cheers of ‘Once More’ and ‘Get Out’ erupted from the audience.
The discord stemmed from the differing reactions, and her father, upset by the spectators’ remarks, vowed never to attend her programs. Despite Kunti’s attempts to explain the norm, a rift ensued.
However, Kunti, undeterred by her father’s decision, continued her musical journey. The turning point came when she sang at the King’s birthday celebration and on Radio Nepal, eventually bringing joy to her father.
Listening to her song on the radio in Darjeeling, her father’s pride swelled as her name was announced before the music played. At that moment, he remarked, “Oh! You are also going to be immortal now,” and a smile crossed his face.
Though her father found joy in her musical achievements, he remained steadfast in his resolve never to attend her programs.
This continued for 35 years until the ‘Kunti Moktan Night’ program in Siliguri. The organizer, aware of the longstanding separation, facilitated her father’s attendance, marking a poignant reunion.
Struggles Before College and Unyielding Resolve
Prior to entering college, Kunti had already carved a niche for herself in the musical realm.
Despite her achievements, economic constraints prevented her family from admitting her to the college after she completed LLC (Lower Secondary Level Certificate). The rationale, as articulated by her parents, was the financial strain of other siblings to support.
Undeterred, Kunti pursued her passion for music during the year of unemployment at home. Eventually, her family relented and admitted her to college after recognizing her commitment.
Despite their ongoing commitment, the desire to showcase their talent through Radio Nepal persisted. However, Kunti recalls the challenge of artists being granted the opportunity to sing on Radio Nepal only twice a year, highlighting the constraints they faced in their quest for melodic recognition.
Reflecting on those days, she recalls contemplating a future where studies might cease after completing Plus Two, anticipating marriage instead.
In essence, Kunti’s journey became a testament to resilience and determination—a path shaped by karma and an unwavering dedication to her musical calling.
Musical Matrimony: Kunti and Sheela Bahadur Moktan’s Harmonious Union
In 1983, Kunti embarked on a lifelong duet with musician Sheela Bahadur Moktan, their paths crossing during music lessons with Purnakumar Rai.
Recalling their musical journey, Kunti reflects, “We needed each other for music. I sang his songs, and he sang mine. Our connection deepened, evolving beyond mere collaboration. It wasn’t a love story as intense as today’s; it was a need. If we hadn’t met, something crucial would have been amiss.”
Their union faced societal challenges due to an inter-caste marriage, leading them to elope in Kathmandu.
In this unfamiliar city, singer Meera Rana played a pivotal role in their lives, providing patronage. Kunti cherishes the support, remembering how Meera Rana facilitated their stay in Ason’s Bhurunkhel.
Reflecting on their marriage, Kunti notes, “There was no formal acceptance or rejection; circumstances favored us. With both families distant, and both being capable individuals, navigating the challenges of Kathmandu became manageable.”
For Kunti, their union transcends the conventional notion of fate, attributing it to karma shaped by their shared passion for music.
No Bollywood Allure: A Commitment to Nepali Culture
Despite Darjeeling’s location in India, Kunti emphasizes the continued dominance of Nepali language and culture in the region.
Recalling her initiation into music, she shares, “Dreams of singing on Radio Nepal fueled my journey. The allure of Radio Nepal in Darjeeling was immense. We used to listen to it at weddings, engagements, and events.”
Even when offered Hindi songs by stalwarts like Narayan Gopal and Bachu Kailash during her Kolkata recording sessions, Kunti remained steadfast in her commitment to singing in Nepali.
She explains, “Encouraging our seniors to sing in Nepali was crucial. I followed their lead. However, I commend the courage of the new generation venturing into Bollywood to showcase their talent globally.”
Struggling in the Melodic Realm: The Moktan’s Tale
The newlywed ‘Moktan Pair’ embarked on their musical journey in Kathmandu, where the groundwork had been laid with Radio Nepal airplay and performances in Darjeeling alongside renowned Nepali artists.
Kunti reminisces, “Our initial struggles were eased by the exposure we had gained. Mira Didi was a significant support, and opportunities to perform were abundant. It’s been a busy journey since the beginning.”
Contrary to expectations, the album became a massive success, emerging as the highest-selling album in the preceding two years.
Despite their ongoing commitment, the desire to showcase their talent through Radio Nepal persisted. However, Kunti recalls the challenge of artists being granted the opportunity to sing on Radio Nepal only twice a year, highlighting the constraints they faced in their quest for melodic recognition.
Persistence in the Melodic Realm
In Kunti’s reminiscence of her musical journey, she expresses a desire for both her and her husband to sing.
To secure an opportunity, they would approach Radio Nepal if a scheduled artist failed to appear.
At that time, she emphasized that the importance of Radio Nepal was unparalleled, with a 100% chance of advancement for those who showcased their artistry on the platform.
Delving into the recording process, Kunti sheds light on the challenges of recording at Ratna Studio in Nepal, emphasizing the meticulous precision required.
If any detail was overlooked, the entire recording had to be restarted, a task coordinated by a musical team of 50-60 people.
She shares the demanding nature of recording, where singers had to maintain the same energy for at least three hours, a process that required both practice and stamina.
The Evolution of ‘Maathi Maathi Sailunge…’
Half a decade into her musical career, Kunti faced criticism for predominantly singing classical songs. Recognizing the need for a change, she collaborated with her husband and composer, Shila Bahadur Moktan, to create a distinctive track.
This collaboration led to the creation of ‘Maathi Maathi Sailunge maa…,’ a folk-inspired song incorporating elements of Tamangselo and Western instruments like the guitar and drums.
Despite initial hesitations from record companies, Kunti released the album ‘Mero Mann’ through ‘Music Nepal’ for royalty.
Occasionally sharing the stage with her daughters, Kunti expresses the unique joy derived from the experience. She notes, “Singing with two daughters brings a different joy. Another happiness comes when there is a response that there is not much difference in the range of mother-daughter while singing.”
Contrary to expectations, the album became a massive success, emerging as the highest-selling album in the preceding two years.
The breakthrough marked a turning point for Kunti, demonstrating her versatility and catapulting her into the limelight.
Even today, the echoes of success resound as audiences clamor for Kunti to perform ‘Maathi Maathi Sailunge maa…’ on stage, solidifying its enduring popularity.
Financial Triumphs and Emotional Depths in Kunti’s Musical Journey
For Kunti Moktan, the album ‘Kushum’ marks a significant turning point in her financial landscape.
Although the exact date of its popularity eludes her, she estimates its rise around the year 2000. Songs like “Sunkai Bhau” and “Choli Raamro Palpali Dhakako” contributed to the album’s immense success, breaking a 20-year sales record and fortifying Kunti’s financial standing.
Despite prior hits contributing to financial stability, ‘Kushum’ became a cornerstone in elevating her economic well-being. It stands as a testament to the enduring impact of her musical prowess on both the cultural and financial fronts.
The Emotional Struggle Behind a Song
Kunti sheds light on the emotional intricacies involved in delivering a powerful song. She emphasizes that a singer must not only master melody and rhythm but also immerse themselves in the emotional core of the lyrics. Kunti reveals a unique challenge she faced with the song:
A Musical Legacy within the Family
Now, Kunti imparts her musical expertise in more than a dozen schools in Kathmandu.
Her husband, Sheela Bahadur Moktan, a senior musician, collaborates on most of Kunti’s songs, forming a harmonious partnership.
The couple’s two daughters, Sheetal and Siwani, actively participate in the singing realm. Siwani, in fact, serves as a judge on the popular reality show ‘Nepal Idol.’
Occasionally sharing the stage with her daughters, Kunti expresses the unique joy derived from the experience. She notes, “Singing with two daughters brings a different joy. Another happiness comes when there is a response that there is not much difference in the range of mother-daughter while singing.”
This musical legacy within the family underscores the multi-generational impact of Kunti Moktan’s musical journey.
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