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🇳🇵 Nepal /Culture & Society

Back in Nepal, Yodda is chasing a bigger dream

From Kathmandu Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • Nepali hip-hop artist Yodda, real name Shanam Gurung, has returned to Nepal after 16 years in the UK to focus on his music career.
  • Gurung aims to promote hip-hop in Nepal and believes a Nepali artist from the scene will achieve international fame soon.
  • His new song 'Abhiyan' was recently released, and he hopes to connect with his audience across the country.

After 16 years abroad, Nepali hip-hop artist Yodda, whose real name is Shanam Gurung, has returned to his home country to pursue his music career with renewed focus. Gurung, known for his hit song ‘Kharab Bani’ with 17 million YouTube views, is now based in Pokhara and aims to be more consistent with his work while ensuring quality.

There are many reasons I moved back, but music is obviously the main one.

— YoddaExplaining his return to Nepal after 16 years in the UK.

Gurung sees his return as an opportunity to connect with his peers and collaborators, who are mostly in Nepal. He feels he was missing out on opportunities, including brand deals and offers, by being away. More importantly, he wants to explore Nepal and meet the fans who message him from across the country, places he has yet to see as an adult.

All of my peers are here in Nepal; it is nice to be in the same place, taking inspiration from other musicians while I make my own.

— YoddaDiscussing the benefits of being based in Nepal for his music career.

He is dedicated to advancing hip-hop in Nepal, observing its growing popularity where listeners enjoy the music regardless of genre. Gurung anticipates that a Nepali artist will soon gain international recognition, a moment he finds remarkable given his own upbringing. His latest release, ‘Abhiyan’, is currently available on YouTube, and he is working to reach new audiences while appreciating his dedicated listeners.

I would consider my wishes fulfilled if I could make a dent in this growing music scene.

— YoddaExpressing his ambition to contribute to Nepal's hip-hop scene.
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Originally published by Kathmandu Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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