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🇳🇵 Nepal /Culture & Society

Performers share pre-show rituals, memorable moments from music awards

From Kathmandu Post · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

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  • Musicians Kuma Sagar, Asmita Adhikari, and Sushant KC shared their pre-performance rituals and memorable moments from the Radio Kantipur National Music Awards.
  • Artists described their unique ways of managing pre-show nerves, from group exercises and affirmations to motivational speeches and hugs.
  • Performing at the awards show offered a mix of challenges and rewards, including overcoming stage fright and cherishing moments like winning an award or honoring a music legend.

Performing at an award show presents a unique challenge, blending celebration with intense pressure. Unlike concerts that thrive on spontaneity, award ceremonies demand a different stage presence, as musicians Kuma Sagar, Asmita Adhikari, and Sushant KC shared their experiences from the Radio Kantipur National Music Awards.

Before we go up on the stage of any show, we gather around for our regular ritual to recite a praise aloud for maa, which goes like ‘bramhayeni mai ki jay’ to boost each other up and leave every emotion behind to own the stage with positivity.

— Kuma Sagardescribing his band's pre-performance ritual

Each artist has distinct pre-show rituals. Kuma Sagar and his band begin with a collective chant, "bramhayeni mai ki jay," to boost morale. Asmita Adhikari focuses inward, taking deep breaths and affirming her confidence. Sushant KC and his team opt for a simple group hug followed by a motivational talk.

I take a deep breath, hum a little and say to myself, I know these songs, I trust my voice, let’s enjoy this moment.

— Asmita Adhikariexplaining her internal pre-performance ritual

Despite the nerves, especially during live broadcasts, the artists found reassurance and joy on stage. Sagar recalled the initial nervousness of a live broadcast giving way to a sense of opportunity. Adhikari felt both excitement and apprehension, particularly when performing a tribute to Sambhujeet Baskota sir, aiming to do justice to his work.

Before every show, they share a group hug, followed by a brief motivational speech from a member.

— Sushant KCdescribing his team's pre-performance ritual

Memorable moments varied for each artist. Sagar cherished the experience of walking onto the stage with his bandmates after winning an award, reflecting on their shared journey. Adhikari found the tribute performance itself an honor. For KC, the highlight was a dynamic entrance through the audience, creating a memorable connection with the crowd as he poured his heart into his song.

We were nervous, especially at first, since it was a live broadcast, but we also sensed it was our moment, so we cheered each other up and thanked god for this opportunity.

— Kuma Sagarrecalling his feelings before performing at the live broadcast awards show
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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