KATHMANDU, Oct 7: The draw of the society toward digital media has provided easy access for many to stand in the limelight. A similar global surge for fame and exposure is equally common in Nepal as well. Nonetheless, despite the introduction of multiple platforms, there are still many raw talents lingering in the shadows. 

To provide visibility to such aspiring musicians, by acknowledging the possible difficulties for newcomers, Radio Nagarik is on a quest to finding singers with a knack for performing covered version songs. Chabahil resident Aruna Shakya is among the initial discoveries of the station. She, alongside Bidhyan Mahate, performed a subtle rendition of the Axix’s 2009 hit ‘Adhuro Prem’ for the second episode of the radio show – Covered. 

She says, “Most of the people are hooked onto the contemporary hits, but I wanted something different. So, I was recommended an Axix classic.” 

Shakya informed that she found the entire team, including the studio engineers, video crew, and makeup artists supportive. Also, she was overwhelmed with joy when her cover video premiered on YouTube. Expressing gratitude to Radio Nagarik, she said, “This is my best video yet. I am grateful to the entire crew.”

BEGINNINGS
Shakya was born to a family of music enthusiasts. Though no one from her family pursued music professionally, they are avid fans of Nepali music. Shakya’s father, in particular, has always been a great admirer of Aruna Lama. “My parents named me after Aruna Lama,” she proudly stated. It wasn’t until recently that Shakya learned about her father’s passion toward guitar and singing. 

CURRENT ENDEAVOURS
Shakya also has a YouTube channel with a modest number of subscribers. She has several cover songs on her channel.  Being a guitar player herself, Shakya can be seen blending her vocals with the rhythms of the six-string instrument. 

Currently, she is working on producing more cover-song videos. Shakya also informed that she was planning to release original compositions in the long run. 

Get Covered 
Radio Nagarik provides the requisites for producing the audio and video of a cover song. The selected artists are also featured on ‘Covered’. The radio show is aired every Sunday from 7 pm to 8 pm on Radio Nagarik 96.5.
To get Covered, send an audio file or link of your cover song to covered965@gmail.com.