Phatteman Rajbhandari

Phatteman Rajbhandari (November 28, 1936 – September 9, 2013), an iconic voice in Nepali music, was a popular vocalist and musician of Nepal known for prominent songs such as "Marna Baru Garho Hunna", "Banai Khayo Dadelo Ley", "Yesto Pani Hudo Raichha", "Sannani ko Galai Ma" and "Rato Ra Chandra".

Early career

Based on published interview:

Phatteman Raj bhandari was born as the third child to his parents Purna Maya Rajbhandari and Jeetman Rajbhandari, a tabla player. He started his study at Durbar High School where he studied for 2–3 months but later joined Padmodaya High School. He however could not pursue higher education due to family circumstances.

He started singing "Bhajans" at a young age along with some acting. After Radio Nepal was established in 1951, Phatteman got a rare opportunity to reveal his talents. He started out by singing a bhajan “Hey Ram Naam Prabhu Ko Japdai Pran Yo Jaaos”.

Awards

Phatteman's contribution to Nepali music has been acknowledged with several accolades during his lifetime: Sujbharajyabhisek Padak in 2039 BS. Chinnalata Giti Puraskar in 2052 BS. Prabal Gorkha Dakshin Bahu in 2055 BS. Birendra Aishwarya Sewa Padak in 2058 BS. Shambhu Prasad Mishra Smriti Award in 2059 BS. Gaddhi Arohan Rajat Mahotsab Padak in 2059 BS. Image Lifetime Achievement Award in 2060 BS. Bhupalman Singh Sangeet Puraskar in 2061 BS

Death

Phatteman died on Sept 9, 2013 after his struggle with lung cancer along with age related complications. He was reportedly receiving chemotherapy at Om Hospital, Chahabahil.

He is survived by his wife, two sons and three daughter.