11th July,2024
Kathmandu – Sima Thapa is one of Nepal’s rising stars in the folk and Dohori music scene. Born on January 4, 2000 (20 Poush 2056 B.S.) in Musikot Municipality, Ward No. 6, Gulmi District (formerly Kurgha VDC-6), she has captivated audiences with her soulful voice and inspiring journey.
Daughter of Bhim Bahadur Thapa and Lalkumari Thapa, Sima made her official musical debut on May 26, 2021, with the release of the song “Khusiko Pal”.
Her subsequent songs, including the devotional “Kailash Jhalala” (released on August 12, 2022), “Batti Nibheko”, “Muskanai Mitho”, “Damaulima Gate”, “Natkai Badi Mayalu”, “Shriman Shrimati”, “Saptarangi Tika”, and “Palpako Dig”, have received wide recognition.
Sima has performed in nearly 500 live Dohori sessions, featured in popular platforms like Sarangi Sansar, ENepal Rodhi Ghar, Tirsana Rodhi, Aashish Rodhi, Khelau Juhari, and the national television show Indreni. She has sung alongside veteran singers such as Raju Pariyar, Chandra Sharma, Indra GC, and Khuman Adhikari.
In Conversation with Artist Khabar Journalist Gopi Krishna Chapagain
How did your interest in singing begin?
No one in my family was involved in music, but I used to sing and dance in school, which sparked my passion. I appeared in the SLC exam in 2073 B.S. from Vidya Mandir School in Baglung. After that, I went to Butwal with the aim of pursuing a career in the medical field.
I worked as a lab assistant and took classes related to the medical field. I wanted to do something meaningful—save lives and help people. I worked at Tilottama Hospital for two years and at Denish Clinic for one and a half years. While studying at Shankarnagar Durgadatta School, I met my friend Sarita Panthi who was teaching vocals at Bageshwori Sangeetalaya. I joined her class and trained for one year. She is still my musical mentor and close friend.
Which artists influenced you during your training?
I was always drawn to folk music. I frequently listened to songs by Bishnu Majhi, Puskal Sharma, Kushal Belbase, Devi Gharti, Sharmila Gurung, and Bima Kumari Dura.
Did you ever consider going abroad?
Never. I always believed in doing something meaningful here in Nepal and being content with my own efforts.
What did you do after coming to Kathmandu?
After working in the medical field, I took the entrance exam at the School of Medical Science in Baneshwor and was selected. I’m currently studying a 3-year CMLT (Lab Technician) course in Kathmandu.
It was during this time I meet Baikuntha Mahat, who encouraged me to try live Dohori. He introduced me to Kamal Kumar BK, the operator of Sarangi Sansar, who gave me my first break in a live session with Rabindra Sunar. That performance was well-received, and the audience wanted more—so I kept going.
Who do you follow most in live Dohori performances?
After performing a few Dohoris, I really wanted to sing with senior singer Raju Pariyar. I was heavily influenced by his music, as well as songs by Resham Nirdosh and Netra Bhandari. I also admire Shila Ale and Regina Pariyar.
You’re active in both music and the medical field. How do you identify yourself?
I prioritize music and want to be known as a singer. However, I will continue my journey in the medical field as well. Music comes first, but healthcare will always be close to my heart.
Have you received any awards or recognition?
Yes, several that inspire me to do more. On April 28, 2024, I received the Best Female Folk Debut Singer award at the Bharati International Music Awards 2024 held in Chandigarh, India. I also won the Best Female Folk Singer (Jury Category) at the Sagarmatha Music Award 2081 in Thailand, presented by NRN Thailand President Bhavindra Basnet and Nepal Airlines Thailand Country Manager Damodar Mishra.
In addition, I received the Public Choice Award for Best Female Singer for the song “Natkai Badi Mayalu” at the Chinari Teej Music Award and Srashta Samman 2081, handed over by Nepal’s first female Chief Minister Hon. Asta Laxmi Shakya. On May 3, 2025, I won the Best Dohori Female Singer at the 8th National Inclusive Music Awards 2081 (NIM). Most recently, on June 3, 2025, I was honored with the Best Folk Dohori Female Singer award at the 5th Rastriya Sadhana Music Awards 2081.
