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Sacred Himalayas
2026
Festival Brochure
A Journey of Healing Through Music, Ritual & Resonance
Book Now | Festival Passes Available
Location: Dusit Princess Kathmandu, Nepal
Date: 9~10 May 2026
Experience for Yourself
Universe of Sound – Sacred Himalayas is a rare immersive festival bringing together Himalayan sacred sound, movement rituals, contemporary music, and orchestral collaboration in the spiritual heart of Nepal. Across two days, participants are invited to listen deeply, move consciously, and experience sound as ritual and medicine, bridging tradition and innovation, earth and sky, body and spirit. This is not just an event.
It is a lived experience of resonance.
Get to Experience
-
Sacred Himalayan sound & chanting
-
Embodied movement & ritualistic dance
-
Sound, science & consciousness dialogues
-
Symphonic finale with Kathmandu Youth Orchestra
-
Sound and movement mini workshops
-
Thangka art exhibition
Festival Highlights
🌿 Sacred Sound & Ritual
-
Himalayan singing bowls & gongs (Opening ceremony & Blessing)
-
Sutra chanting & vocal resonance
-
Sarangi, Bansuri, voice & breath healing journeys
💃 Embodied Movement & Sacred Dance
-
Kumari Dance (Nepal)
-
Bindu: A Rite of Passage
-
Somatic movement & Flower of Life ritual
🧠 Sound, Science & Consciousness Panel:
dialogues on sound, healing & the human experience
🎼 Festival Finale Spring Concert:
Waves of Love, featuring the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra and guest artists
Festival Directors
Dr John Sharpley
Co-Director | Composer I Pianist I Educator (Singapore / USA)
Dr John Sharpley is an internationally recognised composer, pianist, and educator whose career spans Asia, Europe, and the United States. Trained in France and the United States, he holds advanced degrees in music and composition, including a Doctorate from Boston University. His works have been commissioned and performed by major institutions such as the Singapore Symphony Orchestra and leading ensembles across Europe and Asia. A long-time educator at institutions including LASALLE College of the Arts, Dr Sharpley is widely respected for his ability to bridge Western classical traditions with Asian musical forms. His relationship with Nepal began in 2016 through collaborations with the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra, returning in 2024 and 2025 to conduct KYO’s Spring Concerts Tunes of Nepal.
As Festival Co-Director of Universe of Sound – Sacred Himalayas 2026, Dr Sharpley brings artistic rigour, intercultural depth, and pedagogical excellence, strengthening Singapore–Nepal artistic exchange and supporting meaningful international arts engagement.
Amelia Kang
Co-Director | Creative Producer | Sound Healer | Metaphysician
Amelia Kang is a Singaporean festival director, holistic practitioner, and arts professional whose work bridges cultural heritage, healing arts, and contemporary creative collaboration. She began her career in her early 20s at Singapore’s National Arts Council, working on the Singapore International Arts Festival, where she gained grounding in large-scale festival production, international artist management, and cross-cultural programming.
As founder of Ame de Lumiere Holistic Consultancy, Amelia has built an international reputation over the past decade in sound healing, metaphysics, and spiritual education. Her work has been featured in CNA Lifestyle, The Business Times, Women’s Weekly, and AsiaOne, reflecting her influence within the wellness and healing arts sector. Amelia has curated retreats, workshops, and collaborative arts programmes across Asia, bringing together musicians, dancers, healers, and cultural custodians.
As Festival Director of Universe of Sound – Sacred Himalayas 2026, she co-leads artistic vision, programme curation, and intercultural collaboration alongside Dr John Sharpley and the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra, shaping a festival that is both culturally sensitive and globally resonant.
Nhuchhe Munikar
Organising Director | Percussionist | Educator
Nhuchhe Munikar is a dynamic percussionist, educator, and cultural leader dedicated to the preservation and contemporary expression of Nepali music traditions. Based in Kathmandu, he serves as Assistant Lecturer at Sirjana College of Fine Arts and Secretary of the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra.
With a strong foundation in traditional Nepali percussion and collaborative performance practices, Munikar actively performs, teaches, and curates musical initiatives across Nepal. His artistic journey has taken him to international festivals and cultural exchange programs.
He successfully coordinated Spring Concert I and Spring Concert II in Kathmandu in the presence of Dr. John Sharpley(composer/pianist/educator from singapore) fostering cross-cultural dialogue and contributing to the global visibility of Nepali music.
Sabin Munikar
Liaison Director | Educator | Music Specialist
Sabin Munikar is a respected music educator with over 20 years of experience in Nepal’s music education landscape. His expertise spans classical, jazz, and contemporary music, blending traditional foundations with modern teaching approaches.
He previously taught at Kathmandu Jazz Conservatory and currently serves as a Music Specialist at The British School. As the Founder and Director of Kathmandu Music Institute and Chairman of Kathmandu Youth Orchestra, he has created vital platforms for music education and performance in Nepal.
Holding a Bachelor of Arts (Honors) from the University of Wolverhampton, he integrates international methodologies with Nepal’s rich musical traditions, inspiring students to pursue excellence and develop a lifelong love for music.
Festival Artists
Mangal Man Maharjan
Himalayan Singing Bowl Master | Lineage Practitioner
Mangal Man Maharjan is a gifted and versatile artist from Nepal. Born on April 27, 1966, he has spent many years mastering various arts. He is especially known for his skills in Singing Bowls and Gongs Sound Healing, which use the beautiful sounds of these instruments to help people relax and heal. He began practicing sound healing in the early 2000s and has become very well-regarded in this field. Mangal Man is also a talented classical dancer. From 1989 to 2007, he performed as a Charya dancer and theater artist at Hotel Vajra's Studio 7, where he delighted audiences with traditional Nepali dance and theater. Since 1991, he has been involved in the Singing Bowls business, helping it grow and sharing his knowledge with others. His work has taken him to over 15 countries, where he has taught and collaborated with people from all over the world.
Mangal Man's deep understanding of sound healing and his dedication to teaching make him a wonderful person to learn from. His rich experience ensures that anyone who joins his classes will have a meaningful and enriching experience.
Kailin Yong
Violinist | Composer | Cultural Bridge-Builder
Known as the “Fiddler for Peace,” Kailin Yong is a Singaporean multi-disciplinary musician whose work advocates for cultural, spiritual, and environmental harmony. A recipient of the Daniel Pearl Memorial Violin (2004), Kailin has spent decades building musical bridges across cultures.
After 20 years in Europe and the US, he returned to Singapore in 2013 and has since collaborated with leading theatre, dance, and orchestral companies, including the Singapore Symphony Orchestra. He is the founding member of several pan-cultural ensembles and is known for music that honours global folk traditions while calling for peace, planetary healing, and a more harmonious Kampung Earth.
Nhuchhe Munikar
Tabla | Percussion | Rhythm Educator
Nhuchhe Munikar is a renowned Nepali percussionist celebrated for his mastery of tabla and his ability to transform rhythm into a deeply emotional and somatic experience. He has performed internationally across France, Belgium, Bangladesh, India, China, and Saudi Arabia, bringing Nepali rhythm to global audiences.
Nhuchhe currently teaches at multiple institutions in Kathmandu and serves as Secretary of the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra. His teaching blends technical precision with intuitive, heart-centered rhythm, making him a beloved mentor to students and collaborators alike.
Durga Mani Maran
Choreographer | Dance Researcher | Educator
Goddess in Motion | Bindu: A Rite of Passage
Durga Mani Maran is a choreographer and researcher whose work bridges the deep traditions of Bharatanatyam with contemporary somatic and philosophical inquiry. Her practice centers on themes of ritual, transition, and embodied wisdom, creating performances that function as immersive rites of passage. She explores how classical forms can be a vessel for modern narratives of transformation and identity.
Her work, Goddess in Motion | Bindu: A Rite of Passage, draws upon ancient Tamil ritual frameworks and the sacred geometry of the Sri Yantra to structure a journey of consciousness. The piece utilizes a dynamic fusion of classical precision and fluid, contemporary movement to craft a meditative environment. This evolving performance is designed to guide both performer and audience through a potent, shared experience of metamorphosis, positioning dance as a vital medium for exploring inner and collective transformation.
Brabim Maharjan
Sound Healing Practitioner | Educator
Brabim Maharjan's journey is truly incredible, shaped by his family's love for healing sounds and music. Growing up, he was surrounded by the beautiful sounds of Singing Bowls, which sparked his deep love for music. He didn't stop at just one instrument; he explored drums and the enchanting Handpan, driven by his curiosity and passion for creating different sounds.
Guided by his father's wisdom, Brabim learned to play Singing Bowls and later picked up the guitar and drums. He didn't just play for fun; he delved into the world of sound healing, becoming a certified Meditation Facilitator. Through this, he mastered the art of using sound to create peaceful and transformative experiences.
Brabim's travels have taken him to many places, from the serene landscapes of Nepal to bustling cities like Bangkok and Beijing. In his sound healing sessions, he helps people find peace and rejuvenation, whether they're in hospitals or yoga studios. His talent lies in blending the soothing tones of the Handpan with other instruments, creating a space where people can relax and find balance amidst life's challenges. Brabim's dedication to sharing the healing power of sound is evident in his roles as an Assistant Sound Healer and Manager.
As he continues to travel the world, spreading harmony and wellness through his music, Brabim Maharjan inspires us all with his passion and talent for sound healing.
Rajan Maharjan
Sound Healing Practitioner | Educator
Rajan has an interesting story. He started learning meditation at the early age of 8 from a yoga teacher in school and started learning sound healing since 2015, with help from his teacher, Mangal Man Maharjan, He helps people all over the world and also speaks Mandarin, which makes his work even more special.
Rajan grew up in a farmer's family. There were many musical instruments around because his grandfather was a teacher in their town. Since he was a child, he loved sounds. As he got older, he became even more interested in them. He worked hard to learn about sound healing and now knows a lot about how sounds work and how they can help people meditate , find peace and rejuvenate.
He is very talented and humble, always willing to help others. Rajan’s role with Teacher Mangal Man Maharjan involves both healing and teaching, helping others to understand and experience the transformative power of sound and vibration, and fostering a deeper connection between body and spirit.
Kripa Bajracharya
Kumari Dance Performer | Choreographer | Educator
Kripa Bajracharya is a graduate in dance and a versatile performer, choreographer, director, and theatre artist. A National Dance Competition winner, she has performed extensively on national and international platforms, presenting a wide range of dance styles with strong artistic expression.
Alongside her performance career, Kripa is deeply engaged in arts education. She currently serves as ECA/CCA Coordinator at Aarambha Sanskar Vidyalaya and works as a Dance Director at multiple schools, nurturing young talents and promoting creative learning through dance and theatre.
Kathmandu Youth Orchestra
Founded in 2011, the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra (KYO) has grown to become Nepal’s leading non-profit youth music institution. Dedicated to musical excellence and cultural stewardship, KYO empowers a new generation of young musicians through rigorous orchestral education, high-caliber performance opportunities, and a profound commitment to preserving and innovating Nepal’s rich musical heritage.
Renowned for its distinctive artistic vision, the orchestra has pioneered a unique fusion sound, seamlessly blending the structures and textures of Western classical music with the melodic and rhythmic traditions of Nepali and Newari folk music. This innovative approach has not only earned KYO national acclaim and consistent full-house concerts but has also opened doors to significant international collaborations and tours. By honoring tradition while embracing creative evolution, KYO stands as a vital force in Nepal’s cultural landscape—fostering cross-cultural dialogue, nurturing confident young artists, and building resonant bridges that connect Nepal’s artistic past with its dynamic future.
Special Guest
Asst Prof Arjun Archarya PhD
Asst Prof Arjun Archarya PhD | Educator
Arjun Acharya is an Assistant Professor at Tribhuvan University, Nepal, with a Ph.D. in Biomedical Physics. His research centers on the quantum mechanical and molecular behavior of complex biological systems, employing computational approaches such as density functional theory (DFT), molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations to investigate molecular interactions and properties. In addition, his work includes experimental investigations of vibrational and electronic transitions using FTIR and UV–Vis spectroscopy. He also conducts structural, mechanical, and thermal characterization using techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), microhardness analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). His interdisciplinary research aims to advance the understanding of molecular behavior in biological environments and its applications in biomedical science and materials research.
Experience for Yourself
Universe of Sound – Sacred Himalayas is a rare immersive festival bringing together Himalayan sacred sound, movement rituals, contemporary music, and orchestral collaboration in the spiritual heart of Nepal. Across two days, participants are invited to listen deeply, move consciously, and experience sound as ritual and medicine, bridging tradition and innovation, earth and sky, body and spirit. This is not just an event.
It is a lived experience of resonance.
Get to Experience
-
Sacred Himalayan sound & chanting
-
Embodied movement & ritualistic dance
-
Sound, science & consciousness dialogues
-
Symphonic finale with Kathmandu Youth Orchestra
-
Sound and movement mini workshops
-
Thangka art exhibition
Festival Highlights
🌿 Sacred Sound & Ritual
-
Himalayan singing bowls & gongs (Opening ceremony & Blessing)
-
Sutra chanting & vocal resonance
-
Sarangi, Bansuri, voice & breath healing journeys
💃 Embodied Movement & Sacred Dance
-
Kumari Dance (Nepal)
-
Bindu: A Rite of Passage
-
Somatic movement & Flower of Life ritual
🧠 Sound, Science & Consciousness Panel:
dialogues on sound, healing & the human experience
🎼 Festival Finale Spring Concert:
Waves of Love, featuring the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra and guest artists
Festival Directors
Dr John Sharpley
Co-Director | Composer I Pianist I Educator (Singapore / USA)
Dr John Sharpley is an internationally recognised composer, pianist, and educator whose career spans Asia, Europe, and the United States. Trained in France and the United States, he holds advanced degrees in music and composition, including a Doctorate from Boston University. His works have been commissioned and performed by major institutions such as the Singapore Symphony Orchestra and leading ensembles across Europe and Asia. A long-time educator at institutions including LASALLE College of the Arts, Dr Sharpley is widely respected for his ability to bridge Western classical traditions with Asian musical forms. His relationship with Nepal began in 2016 through collaborations with the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra, returning in 2024 and 2025 to conduct KYO’s Spring Concerts Tunes of Nepal.
As Festival Co-Director of Universe of Sound – Sacred Himalayas 2026, Dr Sharpley brings artistic rigour, intercultural depth, and pedagogical excellence, strengthening Singapore–Nepal artistic exchange and supporting meaningful international arts engagement.
Amelia Kang
Co-Director | Creative Producer | Sound Healer | Metaphysician
Amelia Kang is a Singaporean festival director, holistic practitioner, and arts professional whose work bridges cultural heritage, healing arts, and contemporary creative collaboration. She began her career in her early 20s at Singapore’s National Arts Council, working on the Singapore International Arts Festival, where she gained grounding in large-scale festival production, international artist management, and cross-cultural programming.
As founder of Ame de Lumiere Holistic Consultancy, Amelia has built an international reputation over the past decade in sound healing, metaphysics, and spiritual education. Her work has been featured in CNA Lifestyle, The Business Times, Women’s Weekly, and AsiaOne, reflecting her influence within the wellness and healing arts sector. Amelia has curated retreats, workshops, and collaborative arts programmes across Asia, bringing together musicians, dancers, healers, and cultural custodians.
As Festival Director of Universe of Sound – Sacred Himalayas 2026, she co-leads artistic vision, programme curation, and intercultural collaboration alongside Dr John Sharpley and the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra, shaping a festival that is both culturally sensitive and globally resonant.
Nhuchhe Munikar
Organising Director | Percussionist | Educator
Nhuchhe Munikar is a dynamic percussionist, educator, and cultural leader dedicated to the preservation and contemporary expression of Nepali music traditions. Based in Kathmandu, he serves as Assistant Lecturer at Sirjana College of Fine Arts and Secretary of the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra.
With a strong foundation in traditional Nepali percussion and collaborative performance practices, Munikar actively performs, teaches, and curates musical initiatives across Nepal. His artistic journey has taken him to international festivals and cultural exchange programs.
He successfully coordinated Spring Concert I and Spring Concert II in Kathmandu in the presence of Dr. John Sharpley(composer/pianist/educator from singapore) fostering cross-cultural dialogue and contributing to the global visibility of Nepali music.
Sabin Munikar
Liaison Director | Educator | Music Specialist
Sabin Munikar is a respected music educator with over 20 years of experience in Nepal’s music education landscape. His expertise spans classical, jazz, and contemporary music, blending traditional foundations with modern teaching approaches.
He previously taught at Kathmandu Jazz Conservatory and currently serves as a Music Specialist at The British School. As the Founder and Director of Kathmandu Music Institute and Chairman of Kathmandu Youth Orchestra, he has created vital platforms for music education and performance in Nepal.
Holding a Bachelor of Arts (Honors) from the University of Wolverhampton, he integrates international methodologies with Nepal’s rich musical traditions, inspiring students to pursue excellence and develop a lifelong love for music.
Festival Artists
Mangal Man Maharjan
Himalayan Singing Bowl Master | Lineage Practitioner
Mangal Man Maharjan is a gifted and versatile artist from Nepal. Born on April 27, 1966, he has spent many years mastering various arts. He is especially known for his skills in Singing Bowls and Gongs Sound Healing, which use the beautiful sounds of these instruments to help people relax and heal. He began practicing sound healing in the early 2000s and has become very well-regarded in this field. Mangal Man is also a talented classical dancer. From 1989 to 2007, he performed as a Charya dancer and theater artist at Hotel Vajra's Studio 7, where he delighted audiences with traditional Nepali dance and theater. Since 1991, he has been involved in the Singing Bowls business, helping it grow and sharing his knowledge with others. His work has taken him to over 15 countries, where he has taught and collaborated with people from all over the world.
Mangal Man's deep understanding of sound healing and his dedication to teaching make him a wonderful person to learn from. His rich experience ensures that anyone who joins his classes will have a meaningful and enriching experience.
Kailin Yong
Violinist | Composer | Cultural Bridge-Builder
Known as the “Fiddler for Peace,” Kailin Yong is a Singaporean multi-disciplinary musician whose work advocates for cultural, spiritual, and environmental harmony. A recipient of the Daniel Pearl Memorial Violin (2004), Kailin has spent decades building musical bridges across cultures.
After 20 years in Europe and the US, he returned to Singapore in 2013 and has since collaborated with leading theatre, dance, and orchestral companies, including the Singapore Symphony Orchestra. He is the founding member of several pan-cultural ensembles and is known for music that honours global folk traditions while calling for peace, planetary healing, and a more harmonious Kampung Earth.
Nhuchhe Munikar
Tabla | Percussion | Rhythm Educator
Nhuchhe Munikar is a renowned Nepali percussionist celebrated for his mastery of tabla and his ability to transform rhythm into a deeply emotional and somatic experience. He has performed internationally across France, Belgium, Bangladesh, India, China, and Saudi Arabia, bringing Nepali rhythm to global audiences.
Nhuchhe currently teaches at multiple institutions in Kathmandu and serves as Secretary of the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra. His teaching blends technical precision with intuitive, heart-centered rhythm, making him a beloved mentor to students and collaborators alike.
Durga Mani Maran
Choreographer | Dance Researcher | Educator
Goddess in Motion | Bindu: A Rite of Passage
Durga Mani Maran is a choreographer and researcher whose work bridges the deep traditions of Bharatanatyam with contemporary somatic and philosophical inquiry. Her practice centers on themes of ritual, transition, and embodied wisdom, creating performances that function as immersive rites of passage. She explores how classical forms can be a vessel for modern narratives of transformation and identity.
Her work, Goddess in Motion | Bindu: A Rite of Passage, draws upon ancient Tamil ritual frameworks and the sacred geometry of the Sri Yantra to structure a journey of consciousness. The piece utilizes a dynamic fusion of classical precision and fluid, contemporary movement to craft a meditative environment. This evolving performance is designed to guide both performer and audience through a potent, shared experience of metamorphosis, positioning dance as a vital medium for exploring inner and collective transformation.
Brabim Maharjan
Sound Healing Practitioner | Educator
Brabim Maharjan's journey is truly incredible, shaped by his family's love for healing sounds and music. Growing up, he was surrounded by the beautiful sounds of Singing Bowls, which sparked his deep love for music. He didn't stop at just one instrument; he explored drums and the enchanting Handpan, driven by his curiosity and passion for creating different sounds.
Guided by his father's wisdom, Brabim learned to play Singing Bowls and later picked up the guitar and drums. He didn't just play for fun; he delved into the world of sound healing, becoming a certified Meditation Facilitator. Through this, he mastered the art of using sound to create peaceful and transformative experiences.
Brabim's travels have taken him to many places, from the serene landscapes of Nepal to bustling cities like Bangkok and Beijing. In his sound healing sessions, he helps people find peace and rejuvenation, whether they're in hospitals or yoga studios. His talent lies in blending the soothing tones of the Handpan with other instruments, creating a space where people can relax and find balance amidst life's challenges. Brabim's dedication to sharing the healing power of sound is evident in his roles as an Assistant Sound Healer and Manager.
As he continues to travel the world, spreading harmony and wellness through his music, Brabim Maharjan inspires us all with his passion and talent for sound healing.
Rajan Maharjan
Sound Healing Practitioner | Educator
Rajan has an interesting story. He started learning meditation at the early age of 8 from a yoga teacher in school and started learning sound healing since 2015, with help from his teacher, Mangal Man Maharjan, He helps people all over the world and also speaks Mandarin, which makes his work even more special.
Rajan grew up in a farmer's family. There were many musical instruments around because his grandfather was a teacher in their town. Since he was a child, he loved sounds. As he got older, he became even more interested in them. He worked hard to learn about sound healing and now knows a lot about how sounds work and how they can help people meditate , find peace and rejuvenate.
He is very talented and humble, always willing to help others. Rajan’s role with Teacher Mangal Man Maharjan involves both healing and teaching, helping others to understand and experience the transformative power of sound and vibration, and fostering a deeper connection between body and spirit.
Kripa Bajracharya
Kumari Dance Performer | Choreographer | Educator
Kripa Bajracharya is a graduate in dance and a versatile performer, choreographer, director, and theatre artist. A National Dance Competition winner, she has performed extensively on national and international platforms, presenting a wide range of dance styles with strong artistic expression.
Alongside her performance career, Kripa is deeply engaged in arts education. She currently serves as ECA/CCA Coordinator at Aarambha Sanskar Vidyalaya and works as a Dance Director at multiple schools, nurturing young talents and promoting creative learning through dance and theatre.
Kathmandu Youth Orchestra
Founded in 2011, the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra (KYO) has grown to become Nepal’s leading non-profit youth music institution. Dedicated to musical excellence and cultural stewardship, KYO empowers a new generation of young musicians through rigorous orchestral education, high-caliber performance opportunities, and a profound commitment to preserving and innovating Nepal’s rich musical heritage.
Renowned for its distinctive artistic vision, the orchestra has pioneered a unique fusion sound, seamlessly blending the structures and textures of Western classical music with the melodic and rhythmic traditions of Nepali and Newari folk music. This innovative approach has not only earned KYO national acclaim and consistent full-house concerts but has also opened doors to significant international collaborations and tours. By honoring tradition while embracing creative evolution, KYO stands as a vital force in Nepal’s cultural landscape—fostering cross-cultural dialogue, nurturing confident young artists, and building resonant bridges that connect Nepal’s artistic past with its dynamic future.
Arjun Archarya
Experience for Yourself
Universe of Sound – Sacred Himalayas is a rare immersive festival bringing together Himalayan sacred sound, movement rituals, contemporary music, and orchestral collaboration in the spiritual heart of Nepal. Across two days, participants are invited to listen deeply, move consciously, and experience sound as ritual and medicine, bridging tradition and innovation, earth and sky, body and spirit. This is not just an event.
It is a lived experience of resonance.
Get to Experience
-
Sacred Himalayan sound & chanting
-
Embodied movement & ritualistic dance
-
Sound, science & consciousness dialogues
-
Symphonic finale with Kathmandu Youth Orchestra
-
Sound and movement mini workshops
-
Thangka art exhibition
Festival Highlights
🌿 Sacred Sound & Ritual
-
Himalayan singing bowls & gongs (Opening ceremony & Blessing)
-
Sutra chanting & vocal resonance
-
Sarangi, Bansuri, voice & breath healing journeys
💃 Embodied Movement & Sacred Dance
-
Kumari Dance (Nepal)
-
Bindu: A Rite of Passage
-
Somatic movement & Flower of Life ritual
🧠 Sound, Science & Consciousness Panel:
dialogues on sound, healing & the human experience
🎼 Festival Finale Spring Concert:
Waves of Love, featuring the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra and guest artists
Festival Directors
Dr John Sharpley
Co-Director | Composer I Pianist I Educator (Singapore / USA)
Dr John Sharpley is an internationally recognised composer, pianist, and educator whose career spans Asia, Europe, and the United States. Trained in France and the United States, he holds advanced degrees in music and composition, including a Doctorate from Boston University. His works have been commissioned and performed by major institutions such as the Singapore Symphony Orchestra and leading ensembles across Europe and Asia. A long-time educator at institutions including LASALLE College of the Arts, Dr Sharpley is widely respected for his ability to bridge Western classical traditions with Asian musical forms. His relationship with Nepal began in 2016 through collaborations with the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra, returning in 2024 and 2025 to conduct KYO’s Spring Concerts Tunes of Nepal.
As Festival Co-Director of Universe of Sound – Sacred Himalayas 2026, Dr Sharpley brings artistic rigour, intercultural depth, and pedagogical excellence, strengthening Singapore–Nepal artistic exchange and supporting meaningful international arts engagement.
Amelia Kang
Co-Director | Creative Producer | Sound Healer | Metaphysician
Amelia Kang is a Singaporean festival director, holistic practitioner, and arts professional whose work bridges cultural heritage, healing arts, and contemporary creative collaboration. She began her career in her early 20s at Singapore’s National Arts Council, working on the Singapore International Arts Festival, where she gained grounding in large-scale festival production, international artist management, and cross-cultural programming.
As founder of Ame de Lumiere Holistic Consultancy, Amelia has built an international reputation over the past decade in sound healing, metaphysics, and spiritual education. Her work has been featured in CNA Lifestyle, The Business Times, Women’s Weekly, and AsiaOne, reflecting her influence within the wellness and healing arts sector. Amelia has curated retreats, workshops, and collaborative arts programmes across Asia, bringing together musicians, dancers, healers, and cultural custodians.
As Festival Director of Universe of Sound – Sacred Himalayas 2026, she co-leads artistic vision, programme curation, and intercultural collaboration alongside Dr John Sharpley and the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra, shaping a festival that is both culturally sensitive and globally resonant.
Nhuchhe Munikar
Organising Director | Percussionist | Educator
Nhuchhe Munikar is a dynamic percussionist, educator, and cultural leader dedicated to the preservation and contemporary expression of Nepali music traditions. Based in Kathmandu, he serves as Assistant Lecturer at Sirjana College of Fine Arts and Secretary of the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra.
With a strong foundation in traditional Nepali percussion and collaborative performance practices, Munikar actively performs, teaches, and curates musical initiatives across Nepal. His artistic journey has taken him to international festivals and cultural exchange programs.
He successfully coordinated Spring Concert I and Spring Concert II in Kathmandu in the presence of Dr. John Sharpley(composer/pianist/educator from singapore) fostering cross-cultural dialogue and contributing to the global visibility of Nepali music.
Sabin Munikar
Liaison Director | Educator | Music Specialist
Sabin Munikar is a respected music educator with over 20 years of experience in Nepal’s music education landscape. His expertise spans classical, jazz, and contemporary music, blending traditional foundations with modern teaching approaches.
He previously taught at Kathmandu Jazz Conservatory and currently serves as a Music Specialist at The British School. As the Founder and Director of Kathmandu Music Institute and Chairman of Kathmandu Youth Orchestra, he has created vital platforms for music education and performance in Nepal.
Holding a Bachelor of Arts (Honors) from the University of Wolverhampton, he integrates international methodologies with Nepal’s rich musical traditions, inspiring students to pursue excellence and develop a lifelong love for music.
Festival Artists
Mangal Man Maharjan
Himalayan Singing Bowl Master | Lineage Practitioner
Mangal Man Maharjan is a gifted and versatile artist from Nepal. Born on April 27, 1966, he has spent many years mastering various arts. He is especially known for his skills in Singing Bowls and Gongs Sound Healing, which use the beautiful sounds of these instruments to help people relax and heal. He began practicing sound healing in the early 2000s and has become very well-regarded in this field. Mangal Man is also a talented classical dancer. From 1989 to 2007, he performed as a Charya dancer and theater artist at Hotel Vajra's Studio 7, where he delighted audiences with traditional Nepali dance and theater. Since 1991, he has been involved in the Singing Bowls business, helping it grow and sharing his knowledge with others. His work has taken him to over 15 countries, where he has taught and collaborated with people from all over the world.
Mangal Man's deep understanding of sound healing and his dedication to teaching make him a wonderful person to learn from. His rich experience ensures that anyone who joins his classes will have a meaningful and enriching experience.
Kailin Yong
Violinist | Composer | Cultural Bridge-Builder
Known as the “Fiddler for Peace,” Kailin Yong is a Singaporean multi-disciplinary musician whose work advocates for cultural, spiritual, and environmental harmony. A recipient of the Daniel Pearl Memorial Violin (2004), Kailin has spent decades building musical bridges across cultures.
After 20 years in Europe and the US, he returned to Singapore in 2013 and has since collaborated with leading theatre, dance, and orchestral companies, including the Singapore Symphony Orchestra. He is the founding member of several pan-cultural ensembles and is known for music that honours global folk traditions while calling for peace, planetary healing, and a more harmonious Kampung Earth.
Nhuchhe Munikar
Tabla | Percussion | Rhythm Educator
Nhuchhe Munikar is a renowned Nepali percussionist celebrated for his mastery of tabla and his ability to transform rhythm into a deeply emotional and somatic experience. He has performed internationally across France, Belgium, Bangladesh, India, China, and Saudi Arabia, bringing Nepali rhythm to global audiences.
Nhuchhe currently teaches at multiple institutions in Kathmandu and serves as Secretary of the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra. His teaching blends technical precision with intuitive, heart-centered rhythm, making him a beloved mentor to students and collaborators alike.
Durga Mani Maran
Choreographer | Dance Researcher | Educator
Goddess in Motion | Bindu: A Rite of Passage
Durga Mani Maran is a choreographer and researcher whose work bridges the deep traditions of Bharatanatyam with contemporary somatic and philosophical inquiry. Her practice centers on themes of ritual, transition, and embodied wisdom, creating performances that function as immersive rites of passage. She explores how classical forms can be a vessel for modern narratives of transformation and identity.
Her work, Goddess in Motion | Bindu: A Rite of Passage, draws upon ancient Tamil ritual frameworks and the sacred geometry of the Sri Yantra to structure a journey of consciousness. The piece utilizes a dynamic fusion of classical precision and fluid, contemporary movement to craft a meditative environment. This evolving performance is designed to guide both performer and audience through a potent, shared experience of metamorphosis, positioning dance as a vital medium for exploring inner and collective transformation.
Brabim Maharjan
Sound Healing Practitioner | Educator
Brabim Maharjan's journey is truly incredible, shaped by his family's love for healing sounds and music. Growing up, he was surrounded by the beautiful sounds of Singing Bowls, which sparked his deep love for music. He didn't stop at just one instrument; he explored drums and the enchanting Handpan, driven by his curiosity and passion for creating different sounds.
Guided by his father's wisdom, Brabim learned to play Singing Bowls and later picked up the guitar and drums. He didn't just play for fun; he delved into the world of sound healing, becoming a certified Meditation Facilitator. Through this, he mastered the art of using sound to create peaceful and transformative experiences.
Brabim's travels have taken him to many places, from the serene landscapes of Nepal to bustling cities like Bangkok and Beijing. In his sound healing sessions, he helps people find peace and rejuvenation, whether they're in hospitals or yoga studios. His talent lies in blending the soothing tones of the Handpan with other instruments, creating a space where people can relax and find balance amidst life's challenges. Brabim's dedication to sharing the healing power of sound is evident in his roles as an Assistant Sound Healer and Manager.
As he continues to travel the world, spreading harmony and wellness through his music, Brabim Maharjan inspires us all with his passion and talent for sound healing.
Rajan Maharjan
Sound Healing Practitioner | Educator
Rajan has an interesting story. He started learning meditation at the early age of 8 from a yoga teacher in school and started learning sound healing since 2015, with help from his teacher, Mangal Man Maharjan, He helps people all over the world and also speaks Mandarin, which makes his work even more special.
Rajan grew up in a farmer's family. There were many musical instruments around because his grandfather was a teacher in their town. Since he was a child, he loved sounds. As he got older, he became even more interested in them. He worked hard to learn about sound healing and now knows a lot about how sounds work and how they can help people meditate , find peace and rejuvenate.
He is very talented and humble, always willing to help others. Rajan’s role with Teacher Mangal Man Maharjan involves both healing and teaching, helping others to understand and experience the transformative power of sound and vibration, and fostering a deeper connection between body and spirit.
Kripa Bajracharya
Kumari Dance Performer | Choreographer | Educator
Kripa Bajracharya is a graduate in dance and a versatile performer, choreographer, director, and theatre artist. A National Dance Competition winner, she has performed extensively on national and international platforms, presenting a wide range of dance styles with strong artistic expression.
Alongside her performance career, Kripa is deeply engaged in arts education. She currently serves as ECA/CCA Coordinator at Aarambha Sanskar Vidyalaya and works as a Dance Director at multiple schools, nurturing young talents and promoting creative learning through dance and theatre.
Kathmandu Youth Orchestra
Founded in 2011, the Kathmandu Youth Orchestra (KYO) has grown to become Nepal’s leading non-profit youth music institution. Dedicated to musical excellence and cultural stewardship, KYO empowers a new generation of young musicians through rigorous orchestral education, high-caliber performance opportunities, and a profound commitment to preserving and innovating Nepal’s rich musical heritage.
Renowned for its distinctive artistic vision, the orchestra has pioneered a unique fusion sound, seamlessly blending the structures and textures of Western classical music with the melodic and rhythmic traditions of Nepali and Newari folk music. This innovative approach has not only earned KYO national acclaim and consistent full-house concerts but has also opened doors to significant international collaborations and tours. By honoring tradition while embracing creative evolution, KYO stands as a vital force in Nepal’s cultural landscape—fostering cross-cultural dialogue, nurturing confident young artists, and building resonant bridges that connect Nepal’s artistic past with its dynamic future.
Special Guest
Asst Prof Arjun Archarya PhD
Educator | Researcher
Arjun Acharya is an Assistant Professor at Tribhuvan University,
Nepal, with a Ph.D. in Biomedical Physics. His research centers on the quantum mechanical and molecular behavior of complex biological systems, employing computational approaches such as density functional theory (DFT), molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations to investigate molecular interactions and properties. In addition, his work includes experimental investigations of vibrational and electronic transitions using FTIR and UV-Vis spectroscopy. He also conducts structural, mechanical, and thermal characterization using techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), microhardness analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). His interdisciplinary research aims to advance the understanding of molecular behavior in biological environments and its applications in biomedical science and materials research.
Festival Schedule
Roots & Awakening:
A Journey into Ancient Sound and Embodied Movement
Saturday 9 May 2026
9:30AM - 5:30PM
Science, Soul & Symphony:
The Path of Resonance and Renewal
Sunday 10 May 2026
10:00AM - 8:30PM
