Kathmandu- “Diktel Bazar” is a Nepali folk song that was once a massive hit. People still hum this song in villages, at fairs, and while out in the countryside. At one time, it was a blockbuster on radio and FM stations. Sumi Chamling Rai is the singer behind this popular song; however, she has not been active in the music industry for the past few years.

Popular singer Sumi Chamling, who has recently been based in the UK, is planning a comeback to the music scene. She revealed her intention to return after being honored at an awards ceremony organized by Opsana Films, which was held recently in Kathmandu. After being honored for the song ‘Lasa ma Lasa,’ Sumi said, “Despite living in the UK, I have been honored in Nepal. This has given me the encouragement to make a comeback in the music industry.” She stated that she would return to singing within a year.

Sumi’s song “Lasamma Las,” released in 2016, won the award for Best Folk Song at the Opsana Film and Music Awards. She expressed that receiving an award for a song she sang a decade ago not only brought her joy but also deepened her passion for music. Sumi, who has contributed dozens of hit and popular songs to the Nepali music industry, has received numerous awards and honors. Her songs have deeply resonated with the hearts of the audience and listeners.

Sumi, who moved to the UK out of necessity despite her immense passion for Nepali music, says, “I hadn’t completely given up on music; it was simply a lack of time. However, the fact that my song won an award in Nepal—even while I was in the UK has reignited my passion.” “‘Lasa ma Lasa’ is a quintessential Nepali folk song crafted using expressions drawn from rural villages and the countryside.”

Singer Sumi has invested not only her time but also a significant amount of money in the Nepali music industry. However, due to the prevailing tendency within the industry to exploit one another—treating others like “easy prey”—her substantial investment proved to be a complete waste, akin to pouring water into sand. Sumi’s songs have been, and remain, hits.

However, due to the ‘syndicate’ system prevailing in the music industry, even a popular singer like Sumi has been forced to reside in the UK, left only to reflect on the distortions plaguing the Nepali music scene. This situation is not considered positive for the industry. The Nepali music sector needs talented, hardworking singers like Sumi—artists who possess both exceptional vocal ability and genuine artistry. Therefore, it is essential for Sumi to make a comeback in the Nepali music industry.