The Gopal Yonjan Foundation launched the book ‘Gopal Yonjan’ on Saturday at Rastriya Sabha Griha. The event featured a musical performance and a documentary on Yonjan’s life and contributions.

Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey attended as the chief guest, with Kathmandu Metropolitan City co-hosting the event.

The programme opened with a conversation between Renchin Yonjan (Gopal Yonjan’s wife) and media personality Rajesh Pandey, which revolved around patriotism and romantic love.

She entered the stage to ‘Yeti Chokho Yeti Mitho Maya’, a song written for her by Gopal himself. She shared her 27-year journey of archiving and publishing Yonjan’s works. “With just a thought, I started, and now I have reached its plateau. I feel responsible for preserving his legacy,” she said.

The book explores Gopal’s life and legacy, highlighting his journey from Darjeeling to becoming a key figure in Nepali music. It offers insights into his philosophy, moral values, and artistry and showcases his timeless musical brilliance through a collection of writings, interviews, and documents.

Renchin emphasised the book’s importance, especially for music students, and thanked Deputy Mayor Sunita Dangol for her support through Kathmandu Metropolitan City.

The late singer’s wife expressed a desire to revive nostalgia for older generations and redefine romance for the younger ones. Arun Sunar and Pheobe added to the evening with their soulful performance of ‘Ma Kasari Vanum’.

Banika Pradhan performed ‘Thiena Koi Mero’, while Anup, Sachin, and Rabin—who had played with Yonjan since childhood—also participated in the performances. ‘Gopal Yonjan’ is priced at Rs999.