London, Jan 6 – Nepali band Kandara mesmerized over 2,500 attendees in their debut London concert held at the prestigious Indigo at The O2. The event, part of their global tour titled “First Home, Then Abroad”, celebrated the band’s 32nd anniversary, marking a significant milestone in their musical journey.
The band’s frontman, Bibek Shrestha, delivered a captivating two-hour performance featuring live music by instrumentalists flown in from Nepal. Iconic hits like Tagaroma Rumal Rakhi, Jindagiko Yo Utsav Ho, Hong Kong Pokhara, Chiso Chiso Hawa Ma, and Phulchowki Ko Dandaima left the audience clamoring for encores after every song.
With nearly 2,800 attendees, the event was a resounding success, according to the organizers, Mamaghar Entertainment. During the concert, Shrestha also performed Gopal Yonjan’s Dherai Chha Garnu Swadeshko Seva Nepali Bannalai, urging Nepalis in the UK to return to their homeland.
After the performance, an emotional Shrestha shared, “Performing at this legendary venue, where global music icons have graced the stage, has been a lifelong dream. Singing here in front of our Nepali brothers, sisters, and parents feels surreal.”
Kandara’s Lineup and Legacy
Kandara’s current lineup includes:
• Vocals: Bibek Shrestha
• Drums: Sunil Thapa (a founding member)
• Lead Guitar: Dev Lama
• Bass Guitar: Pankaj Jha
• Madal: Avinash Gayak
• Keyboard: Umesh Thapa
As pioneers of Nepali folk-pop fusion, Kandara has been a key player in modernizing Nepali music and connecting it to global audiences.
Global Tour Schedule
Celebrating their 32-year legacy, Kandara has declared 2024-2025 as their “Musical Anniversary Year”. Following the London concert, they are set to perform in:
• June: Dubai, Qatar, and Hong Kong
• March-April: Australia and New Zealand
• May: United States
• June: Canada
• July-August: Various European countries
• August-September: Japan
This tour further reinforces Kandara’s commitment to preserving Nepali musical heritage while inspiring younger generations with their unique blend of folk and pop music.