Veteran singer Gyanu Rana’s recent performance at Nepalaya’s ‘R’ Shala in Kalikasthan rekindled the spirit of her late father, folk legend Dharmaraj Thapa.

The two-day Paleti event, held on Friday and Saturday, featured a heartfelt blend of Rana’s musical journey, her father’s legacy, and her son’s tribute — weaving together three generations of Nepali music.

The programme, divided into two segments, began with a Saraswati Vandana, reflecting Rana’s spiritual inclination. Over two hours, she performed 16 songs, including beloved numbers such as ‘Phoolbari Timrai Ho Maya’, ‘Chautarima Mai Base Hola Ki’, and ‘Manchheko Maya Yaha’, her timeless duet with the late Narayan Gopal. She was accompanied by singer Rupak Chaudhary, who provided harmonies throughout the evening.

Rana reminisced about recording her first song ‘Jane Kaha Ho’ at the age of 14 alongside her father at Radio Nepal. “Oh, how time flies — nearly 64 years have passed since then! Yet I’m still singing, and I’ll continue as long as I can,” she told the audience, her voice tinged with emotion.

The event’s second half turned into a homage to Dharmaraj Thapa. Rana’s son, Bikash Jung Rana, took the stage to perform ‘Hariyo Bhannu Ni’, ‘Aaja Madal Bajeko Kina’, and ‘Saili Rimai Chauri Gai’, evoking vivid memories of his grandfather. “When my son sings my father’s songs, I feel as if he’s right here,” Gyanu Rana said tearfully.

Paleti coordinator Aabhas described the evening as “a celebration of Nepali music’s living heritage — from Dharmaraj Thapa to Gyanu Rana and now to Bikash.” The event concluded with the collective performance ‘Karod Mutuharuko Dhukdhuki Nepal’, symbolising Pokhara’s musical roots.

The November edition of Paleti also introduced a pay-per-view option for global audiences via www.paleti.com.np.

Organisers announced that the next Paleti, scheduled for 28–29 November, will commemorate singer Fatteman’s birth anniversary with a ‘Geeti-Nibandha’ (musical-essay) presentation.