Aruna Lama: The Melody Queen of the Hills

Introduction

Aruna Lama, often hailed as the “Melody Queen,” “Swor Samraggi,” or “Nightingale of the Hills,” was a renowned singer from Nepal and the Nepali-speaking world. Known for her soulful voice and melancholic songs, she made an indelible mark on the Nepali music industry. Aruna Lama’s songs are cherished by millions and continue to be a symbol of love, pain, and the beauty of the Nepali hills. In her Honor, Presenting the Biography of Aruna Lama.

Early Life

Aruna Lama was born on September 9, 1945, in Darjeeling, India, to Surya Bahadur Lama and Sanmaya Lama. Growing up in the picturesque hills of Darjeeling, she developed a deep connection to nature, which later influenced the emotional depth of her music. Her interest in music blossomed at an early age, and she often sang in local events and school programs. His uncle CB Lama inspired him to sing from an early age and Nepali music veteran Amber Gurung trained him in singing since 1958.

Education

Aruna Lama completed her schooling at St. Teresa’s Girls High School in Darjeeling. Afterward, she pursued further studies at Darjeeling Government College. Although music was her passion, she balanced her studies and music career with determination. Despite the challenges, she graduated while continuing to nurture her love for singing.

Career Beginnings

Aruna Lama’s singing career began in Darjeeling, where the Nepali-speaking community was vibrant and culturally active. In 1956, at the age of 11, she Participated in and won a music competition organized by the Local organization Gorkha Dukha Niwarak Sammelan. She first gained recognition through her performances on All India Radio (AIR) in the 1960s. Her early songs were primarily influenced by the traditional Nepali folk genre, but she quickly developed her unique style. Her voice captured the hearts of listeners with its emotional depth and purity.

Struggles and Challenges

Aruna Lama’s life was filled with personal struggles. Her husband, Saran Pradhan, passed away at a young age, leaving her to care for their children alone. At that tragic time, she was only 29 years old. Despite this emotional turmoil, Aruna continued to sing, using her music as an outlet for her grief and longing. Her songs, full of pain and heartache, resonated deeply with listeners, many of whom found solace in her voice.

Rise to Fame

The turning point in Aruna Lama’s career came with the release of her timeless songs, such as “Eh Kancha Malai Sunko Tara,” “Phool Ko Thunga,” and “Ma Sanga Timro.” These songs catapulted her into fame, and she became a beloved figure in the Nepali music scene. Her collaboration with lyricist Amber Gurung and other prominent musicians further elevated her status as one of the most talented singers of her time.

Major Contributions and Achievements

Aruna Lama’s contribution to Nepali music was immense. She sang over 300 songs, many of which remain timeless classics. Her songs often dealt with themes of love, loss, and the beauty of the hills. Known for her ability to convey profound emotions, she became a symbol of the Nepali music industry’s golden era.

• Popular Songs: “Eh Kancha Malai Sunko Tara,” “Phool Ko Thunga,” “Ma Sanga Timro,” “Eklai Basda” and Many more.
• Awards and Honors: For her contributions to Nepali music, she received several awards, including the Bhanu Puraskar and the Nepal Chhinnalata Puraskar. Also, she was honored by Nepal’s Higher honoring “Prabala Gorkha Dakshina Bahu” (1996) And “Suprabal Janasewa Shree 3rd”.

Personal Life

Aruna Lama was married to Saran Pradhan, a musician and composer. Their marriage was a partnership in life and music. After her husband’s death, Aruna took on the responsibility of raising their two children. Despite the hardships, she remained dedicated to her music, pouring her emotions into every song.

After her husband left her at a very young age, she was left to raise two children. In the beginning, there was the problem of unemployment, although she got a job in the Scheduled Castes and Tribes Welfare Office in Darjeeling. But her singing field was in Kathmandu, and her career was in Darjeeling, so it wasn’t easy to manage and rise to children. However, she worked until 1998 with suffering.

Legacy

Aruna Lama’s legacy as the “Melody Queen” continues to inspire singers and music lovers in Nepal and across the world. Her unique ability to connect with listeners through her emotional, soulful voice has left an enduring impact on the Nepali music industry. Even years after her passing, her songs are still widely listened to, and she remains one of the most beloved figures in Nepali music history.

She has also been honored with various titles such as ‘Nightingale of the Hills’ (Hindustan Recording Sansthan, Kolkata), ‘Swar Kinnari’ (Sitaram Sahitya Pratisthan, Kathmandu), and ‘Swar Samraggi’ (Arunanjali Programme, Kathmandu).

Summary

‘Swor Samraggi’ Aruna Lama, a singer who resided in Nepalis’ hearts, left an indelible mark on Nepali music with her heartfelt melodies and emotive singing. Her music continues to touch people’s hearts, making her a timeless figure in the world of Nepali art and culture.

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