KATHMANDU, Nov 5: Ajay Adhikari ‘Sushil’ started his career as a teacher from Samata School, Lalitpur when he was just 17 years old. However, his passion for music kept bugging him to pursue a career in music. With much training and workshops, Ajay later turned into a singer, composer and lyricist. Today, he is the principal of Samata School, an author as well as a freelance actor. He has published a book called ‘Bhoge, Dekhe Ani Lekhe’ and produced theatre dramas.

He said, “I started my musical journey as a singer in 2068 BS. But, I was fond of singing since my childhood. I did not have any particular routine to practice music. I would sing on the way to school from home and back.” 

He added, “I never had a specific role model in music. Basically, I used to listen to sentimental songs of Naryan Gopal along with pop songs by Karma band and Hindi music. I learnt the basic singing skills by myself.”

As of today, Ajay has released six albums including ‘Man Ko Rahar’ in 2016, ‘Yo Kasto Rahar’ in 2015, ‘Dashain Ra Tihar’ in 2014, ‘Pani Nakhai Basnai Pardaina’ in 2014, ‘Pheri Arko Rahar’ in 2013 and ‘Rahar’ in 2012. He stated that his wanted to make the word ‘Rahar’ as his signature when named his album in 2012. 

In his Teej song ‘Pani Nakhai Basnai Pardaina’, Ajay had collaborated with singer Komal Oli. The song gave a social message to the listeners that women do not need to observe fast without a single drop of water for the Teej festival. Just like in the song, most of Ajay’s works are based on social practices. 

Though he had studied science in plus two level, he did master’s in sociology from TU because he didn’t like science at all. He had tried to study music at Lalitkala Campus, but somehow he couldn’t get through.  

“When I was still in my struggling phase, I had released my first album in secret without letting my family know about it. I did so because my family wouldn’t accept my decision to become a singer during that time. But when I earned all the name and fame, my family gradually understood and supported me. Now, they all are happy with what I’m doing in my field,” said Sujan.

For him, hard work, dedication and patience are requirements to become a successful artist. “Along with the dedication you show, luck also plays a role in your success. There are many other talented artists in the world, but not all of them achieve fame and success.”

 The 27-year-old, who is also father to a son, said, “I’m engaged with a social institution as an administrator so, I plan to do something for the youths. Apparently, they are not so active. Indeed, I will organize some campaigns to aware them to initiate something for the nation’s welfare. And I’m also planning to make the country drugs-free.”