Aruna Lama

Aruna Lama (9 September 1945 – 4 February 1998) was an Indian-born Nepali-language singer from Darjeeling, widely celebrated as the “Nightingale of the Hills.” Renowned for her emotive voice and lyrical depth, she remains one of the most influential figures in Nepali music history, with a career spanning folk, modern songs, and film music.

Personal & Geographic Details

• Full Name: Aruna Lama
• Date of Birth: 9 September 1945
• Place of Birth: Ghoom Pahar, Darjeeling
• City: Darjeeling
• District: Darjeeling District
• State/Province: West Bengal
• Country: India
• Language of Work: Nepali
• Date of Death: 4 February 1998

Biography & Background

Aruna Lama was born to Nepali parents Surya Bahadur Lama and Sanmaya Lama in Ghoom Pahar, Darjeeling. Her musical journey began early under the inspiration of her uncle C. B. Lama, and at just 11 years old, she won a music competition organized by the Gorkha Dukha Niwarak Sammelan (GDNS) in 1956.

From 1958, she received formal musical grooming from legendary composer Amber Gurung, who played a pivotal role in shaping her career. Aruna Lama completed her schooling at Mungpoo Primary School, Jalpahar, and St. Teresa’s School, Darjeeling, and later earned a Bachelor’s degree in Arts from Darjeeling Government College.

Career, Role & Contributions

Aruna Lama was a professional singer, cultural ambassador, and artistic pioneer of Nepali music. She sang hundreds of Nepali songs, collaborating with eminent composers such as:

• Amber Gurung
• Karma Yonzon
• Gopal Yonzon
• Shanti Thatal
• Narayan Gopal
• Mani Kamal Chettri
• Dibya Khaling

Her first recorded song (1961) featured lyrics by Bhupi Sherchan and composition by Amber Gurung.

Despite personal hardships—including the untimely death of her husband Saran Pradhan in 1974—she continued performing while raising her two children, Sapna Pradhan Thapa and Supreet Raj Pradhan. Alongside music, she worked as:

• Assistant Teacher at St. Alphonsus School, Darjeeling
• Employee at the Scheduled Castes and Tribes Welfare Office, Darjeeling (until 1998)

Her perseverance and dedication made her a symbol of resilience, artistry, and cultural pride.

Music & Notable Works

Aruna Lama’s voice is remembered for its emotional clarity, classical finesse, and folk soul.

Iconic Songs

• Eh Kancha Malai Sunko Tara
• Phool Lai Sodhey
• Pohor Saal Khusi Phatda
• Hera Na Hera Kancha
• Laharey Bara Ghumauney Chautari
• Eklai Basda
• Nepali Gaurav Garchau Afnaipanma

Nepali Film Songs

• Maitighar
• Paral Ko Aago
• Kanchhi

These songs continue to be widely played and remembered across Nepal, Darjeeling, Sikkim, and the global Nepali diaspora.

Awards & Honors

Aruna Lama received numerous prestigious awards in India and Nepal, including:

• Sangit Puraskar (1966)
• Sur Sringar Sammelan Puraskar (1966)
• Mitrasen Puraskar (1975, Assam)
• Dishari Puraskar (1980, Kolkata)
• Bhanu Academy Puraskar (1982, Darjeeling)
• Nepali Chalchitra Puraskar – Maitighar (1983)
• Chinnlata Geet Puraskar (1992, Kathmandu)
• Urvashi Rang Puraskar (1992, Kathmandu)
• Mitrasen Sangeet Puraskar (1995, Gangtok)
• Gorkha Dakshina Bahu IV (1996, Kathmandu)
• Sadhna Puraskar (Kathmandu)

Honorary Titles

• Nightingale of the Hills
• Swar Kinnari
• Swar Samagri

Cultural Relevance & Legacy

Aruna Lama is revered as a pillar of Nepali cultural identity, especially among Nepali-speaking communities in Nepal, India, Bhutan, and abroad. Her songs are studied, performed, and revered for their emotional authenticity and cultural depth. She remains an enduring inspiration for Nepali singers and music scholars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Aruna Lama?
Aruna Lama was a legendary Nepali-language singer from Darjeeling, known as the “Nightingale of the Hills.”

Where was Aruna Lama born?
She was born in Ghoom Pahar, Darjeeling, West Bengal, India.

Why is Aruna Lama famous?
She is famous for her timeless Nepali songs, film music, and her immense contribution to Nepali musical heritage.

What language did Aruna Lama sing in?
She primarily sang in the Nepali language.

Did Aruna Lama sing for Nepali films?
Yes, she sang for popular Nepali films such as Maitighar, Paral Ko Aago, and Kanchhi.

What is Aruna Lama’s legacy today?
She is remembered as one of the greatest voices in Nepali music history and a cultural icon of the Himalayan region.