The patriotic hymns of “Rato ra Chanda Surya, Jangi Nisan Hamro” ring out through the minds of every Nepali citizen that grew up with these sacred words. These dutiful words that serve as the Military Anthem is testament to the character of the person whose mellifluous yet galvanizing voice defined an entire era of the Nepali's identity.
8 years have passed since the passing of the legendary singer Phatteman, the man behind some of Nepali culture's greatest tunes. From “Marna baru garo hunna'' to “Rato ra Chandra Surya '' his iconic vocals have managed to enamour the Nepali public for over half a century. Even today radio stations continue playing his tunes, much to the joy of the listeners.
Phatteman’s talent and achievements over the course of his life were extraordinary. Being named “Nepal Swar Samrat” to earning the praise of the legendary late Narayan Gopal and even singing a few of his compositions. Legendary seems an inept word when it comes to describing Phatteman’s life.
Born near Pashupatinath in the year 1993, Phatteman ws immersed into the music world from his very childhood. Having lived near the temple, as a child he sang along to the hymns at Pashupati. Hence, his later work seems to mostly be inspired by the classical style of music.
Phatteman led a rather eventful adult life. Having studied at Durbar highschool initially, he moved to Padmodaya High School but never graduated from there. He then started to sing “bhajan '( hymns) around town and got his big break singing religious hymns at Radio Nepal. Due to a lack of commercialization in Nepali Music, during this period, he had to take up odd jobs along the way to support his family.
Throughout his musical career, Phatteman managed to compose 40 songs and sung more than 400 classical songs, some of which are considered as Nepali Heritage. His only album is titled “Phatteman at 70” .
This legendary personality passed away on the 9th of September, 2003. Even though he is present amongst us no more, his music does and shall continue to live on and permeate the hearts and minds of every Nepali that happens upon it.
