About Me
Meet Anil Khanal
Anil Khanal is a versatile Nepali lyricist and composer who has penned over 200 songs across folk, modern, patriotic, and film genres. Known for his lyrical depth and cultural authenticity, Anil has made a significant mark in Nepal’s evolving music scene. His words carry the emotions of everyday life, love, loss, longing, hope and resonate with listeners of all ages.
Born in Gulmi District, raised amidst the hills of western Nepal, and now based in Kathmandu, Anil bridges tradition and modernity through song.
Early Life and Musical roots
Born on May 2, 1996 (B.S. 2053-01-20) in Dhurkot Rural Municipality-2, Pipaldhara, Kataunje, Gulmi, Anil was raised in a family rooted in cultural and moral values. He is the son of Keshav Raj Khanal and Pushpa Khanal, and the grandson of Dilliraj Khanal and Bijula Devi Khanal.
Growing up in a village surrounded by folk traditions, Anil was deeply influenced by local festivals, storytelling, and the melodic language of daily life. Though he had no formal music training in his early years, his natural inclination toward poetry and rhythm emerged through school songs, community gatherings, and the radio tunes of his childhood.
Musical Journey
Anil officially stepped into Nepal’s music industry around 2069/70 B.S., with his debut modern track “Sarpale Jhai Dasera Gayau” featured in the album Anil. The song was composed by Rajkumar Bagar and beautifully sung by Swaroop Raj Acharya, one of Nepal’s most respected vocalists.
Shortly after, he ventured into folk music, writing and composing the duet “Mero Sanu Kaha Holin”, performed by Devi Gharti and Prem Bardewa. This marked his growing recognition as a creator who could authentically portray rural sentiment with poetic finesse.
Entry Into Nepali Film Industry
Anil made his film lyricist debut with “Daiba Lagyo Maya Ma Sansarai Dadhayo” in the movie Timro Hune Kahile, directed by Raju Giri and released in 2078 B.S. The song was composed by Babul Giri and sung by Ram Bhakta Jojiju.
This transition from folk and modern genres into cinematic storytelling opened new creative opportunities for Anil and expanded his audience nationwide.
Recognition & Awards
- Bindhyabasini Music Awards (2072): Nominated – Top 5 for “Sarpale Jhai Dasera Gayau”
- Epic Nepal Music Award (2076): Winner – Best Folk Duet (Jury) for “Farkera Aideuna Niramaya”
- NIM Music Award (2079): Winner – Best Folk Lyricist (Jury) for “Bachchaki Aama”
These awards are a testament to his lyrical quality, emotional range, and audience impact.
Literary & Media Recognition
Anil Khanal’s work has been discussed and featured in:
- The book “गीत सिद्धान्त र इतिहास” (Geet Siddhanta ra Itihas) by Prof. Krishna Hari Baral, a respected literary and music scholar.
- National online platforms such as Ratopati, DCNepal, MeroNews, and NayaPusta.
These mentions reflect the literary merit and cultural relevance of his music.
Collaborations
Over the years, Anil has worked with some of the most acclaimed voices and composers in Nepal, including:
- Swaroop Raj Acharya
- Kulendra Bishwakarma
- Ramchandra Chand
- Devi Gharti
- Narhari Premi
- Purnakala B.C.
- Babul Giri
- Santosh Pragadh
- Narendra Pyasi and many more…
These collaborations reflect his versatility and respected position in the Nepali music community.