Hemanta Rana: “I Love The Stage, And The Stage Loves Me”

Many people adore the timeless melodies that Hemanta Rana, a renowned Nepalese singer, has composed. Hemanta Rana has introduced masterpieces, such as Laija Re and Saili, to Nepal’s mainstream music industry, without having any education in music. As a person who enjoys travelling and performing on stage, he has already performed many live shows in numerous locations around Nepal and internationally.

If asked to introduce yourself, how would you like to introduce yourself?

As a person who loves to get involved in various fields and art forms, I have never thought of limiting myself into a particular stream. So, I would like to introduce myself as a musician and artist who is inclined towards any creative art form. 

As you recently produced a film ‘Saili’ which is a different field for a musician, what was the initial approach behind the thought?

I aspired to collaborate in the creation of art, since both music and filmmaking are forms of art with different formats. I was able to bring ‘Saili’ to life with the assistance of a fantastic crew and their ideas. I might come up with something new very soon. The picture was adored by the audience and was a splendid sensation altogether.

Have you ever got nervous on stage while performing in front of a large audience?

No. Since performing on stage makes me the happiest I’ve ever been, I have never had any stage fright as of now. As I perform live on stage, I feel I love the stage, and the stage loves me. Every time I am on stage, the enthusiastic audience and the glitz of the set naturally inspire me to perform.

What is the one thing that most people might not know about you?

I assume that most people are familiar with my journey. But, some might not be aware that I entered into the field of music by coincidence. Since I come from a sports background, I have always been interested in sports and wanted to be involved in sports.

Have you ever regretted not being able to pursue sports professionally?

I pursued my passion that is singing, despite the fact that it happened to me by coincidence. So, I’ve never doubted my career as an artist. The only thing that bothers me is that I wish I had at least once been able to play sports internationally for Nepal.

What are the musical instruments that you play?

I play a few instruments, such as the guitar, keyboard, and piano. But I’m not great at them.

How do you manage time to do the things you love to do in your leisure time?

A person can manage time to do what they enjoy even with a hectic schedule, in my perspective. I prioritise managing time for my passion, which is travelling, hiking, or camping. It’s something I always look forward to doing in my free time.

What advice would you like to give to aspiring musicians?

My personal opinion is those who rank second and third in the industry are useless. In order to succeed in the industry, up-and-coming artists must constantly be willing to put in the effort and energy, essential to accomplishing their objectives. The Nepali music industry is ready to accept individuals, who are eager to learn and always willing to put in their best effort.

What prevents the music industry of Nepal from becoming a global force?

The Nepali music industry should give priority to authentic Nepali music rather than getting influenced by others. Adapting to new developments is undoubtedly vital, but we must watch out that the new adoption doesn’t mean the abandonment of the authentic.