The Birth of Dhrupad Gurukul Kathmandu: A Journey Rooted in Sound, Spirit, and Silence
For over fifteen years, the musical and spiritual path of Sou and Vishal has been intertwined with the ancient, meditative art of Dhrupad. Bound by a shared longing for depth and discipline, they became disciples under the legendary Gundecha Brothers, dedicating themselves to years of immersive training within the traditional gurukul system where life itself becomes a form of practice, and music, a vessel for the soul. After more than five transformative years in this sacred environment, a quiet calling stirred within them a yearning to deepen their sādhanā beyond the known. Guided by intuition rather than destination, they turned their hearts toward the Himalayas. And so, during the monsoon season of 2013, they arrived in the mist-laden valley of Kathmandu, tanpuras over their shoulders, devotion in their steps.
In those early days, finding fellow seekers of Dhrupad listeners, let alone learners was a task steeped in silence and patience. Yet undeterred, the two carried their large tanpuras through the narrow lanes of the city, visiting the homes of musicians, poets, and historians. With every visit, they shared not just melodies but the essence of Dhrupad—its quiet power, its ancient resonance. Those wandering days still echo in their memories as vividly as the notes they sang. Out of their presence in the community emerged a small offering: free Saturday classes for the neighborhood’s children. These sessions were more than just music lessons—they were seeds of tradition, planted in young hearts. Slowly, the roots began to take hold. Adults, too, began to gather—some musicians from other genres, some seekers of peace—each drawn by the soulful stillness Dhrupad offered.
In 2016, a pivotal moment arrived. Invited by a traditional acupuncture school in Japan, Sou and Vishal embarked on their first Dhrupad concert tour. The success of this journey rippled across borders. When they returned to Nepal, their revered gurus, the Gundecha Brothers, blessed their space with a name: Dhrupad Gurukul Kathmandu. With this name came official recognition, and the Gurukul was registered with the Nepal government (as a socio-cultural institution, Social Welfare Council) becoming the first and only dedicated Dhrupad institution outside India. A dream had taken form—not as a monument of stone, but as a living, breathing sanctuary of sound and spirit.
Today, Sou and Vishal continue their journey inward and outward—refining their art, researching the science of sound, and welcoming seekers from across the world. Their Gurukul stands open not as a school alone, but as a sacred home for those who wish to walk this ancient path, where music is not merely heard, but experienced as meditation, as devotion, as life itself.


Guru-Shishya Tradition
At Dhrupad Gurukul Kathmandu, the revered Guru-Shishya (master-disciple) tradition is central. This immersive and personalized method of teaching fosters not only musical skill but also spiritual growth, self-awareness, and a deeper connection with the universe. The Gurukul emphasizes disciplined living, mindfulness, and artistic integrity.
Mission and Community Impact
The Gurukul aims to preserve and share the beauty of Dhrupad with future generations. It is committed to making classical music accessible to all, particularly underprivileged and orphaned children in Nepal. Through various initiatives, including Hamra Baccha Ramra Chhan, Sano Baithak, and Sangeet-Prarthana, the Gurukul introduces young audiences to Dhrupad, nurturing talent and cultural appreciation.
Programs and Facilitie
- Classes: Morning (8:00–11:00 a.m.) and afternoon (3:00–6:00 p.m.)
- Hostel: A modest residential facility is available for students and guest musicians including kitchen access.
- Events: Regular programs and collaborations with different organizations and cultural exchange.
Location and Accessibility
Situated in Bhaisepati, Lalitpur, the Gurukul offers a tranquil environment conducive to learning and meditation. It is easily accessible, located just 7–8 kilometers from Tribhuvan International Airport and central Kathmandu.
Experience the Legacy
Dhrupad Gurukul Kathmandu is not just a music school; it is a lifestyle that intertwines art, spirituality, and culture. By connecting with the cosmic vibrations of Dhrupad and the tranquility of the Himalayas, students and practitioners embark on a journey of self-discovery and artistic growth. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced musician, the Gurukul welcomes you to explore the timeless tradition of Dhrupad.
About Guru

Inoue Sou: Vocal is a renowned artist who bridges the spiritual traditions of Japan with the profound depth of Hindustani classical music. Rooted in Shinto spirituality and a master of the Japanese flute (Fue), he initially captivated global audiences across Europe with traditional Japanese melodies. His musical journey evolved in 2004 when he embraced Hindustani classical music, eventually dedicating himself to Dhrupad. Under the legendary Gundecha Brothers at Dhrupad Sansthan, Bhopal, he underwent six years of rigorous training, mastering the meditative art form and its intricate techniques.
Co-founder of the Dhrupad Gurukul Kathmandu, Shri Inoue Sou has performed across the USA, Europe, Australia, Japan, Nepal, and India, earning acclaim for his unique blend of technical precision and spiritual depth. His music reflects a seamless fusion of Japanese minimalism and Indian classical intricacy, offering a meditative journey that transcends cultural and temporal boundaries. Through his teaching, performances, and cultural collaborations, he continues to inspire, preserving the timeless legacy of Dhrupad while fostering its universal message of harmony and self-realization.

Vishal Bhattarai: Vocal is a young Dhrupad vocalist from Nepal, Vishal Bhattarai is dedicated to preserving and promoting the ancient tradition of Dhrupad music. A devoted disciple of the legendary Padma Shri Gundecha Brothers, he trained rigorously in the Guru-Shishya Parampara at the Dhrupad Sansthan Gurukul, Bhopal (2008–2013). Together with his fellow disciple, Inoue Sou, he co-founded the Dhrupad Gurukul Kathmandu, under their Gurus’ guidance, to nurture and propagate Dhrupad music in Nepal.
Vishal's musical journey began in childhood, inspired by devotional singing in his family. In 2002, he started formal training at the Bageshwari Art and Music Academy, Nepal, and later honed his skills at Shri Ram Bhartiya Kala Kendra, New Delhi, under Smt. Sonia Roy (Khayal vocalist) and Pt. Birendra Malviya (Tabla maestro). His deep connection to Indian classical music eventually led him to the profound tradition of Dhrupad. Over the years, Vishal has performed on prestigious stages worldwide and has worked tirelessly to pass on this timeless art form. At the Gurukul, he trains young, underprivileged, and orphaned children, preserving the purity of Dhrupad while making it accessible to new generations. Vishal Bhattarai’s journey reflects a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, establishing him as a torchbearer of this meditative art form.

Mukesh Shakya: Pakhawaj, hailing from the historic town of Bungamati in the Kathmandu Valley, is a prominent classical instrumentalist of Nepal. Immersed in the rich traditions of the Newa civilization, he developed a passion for music early on, inspired by the devotional hymns of the Newari “Dapha Khala”. His musical journey began under the mentorship of Guru Purna Bahadur Thapa, who guided him to study tabla with the esteemed late Guru Rabin Lal Shrestha. Mukesh honed his skills further through formal education at Lalit Kala Campus.
Beyond music, Mukesh is deeply connected to his ancestral craft of wood carving. Not only does he play the tabla and other percussion instruments, but he also meticulously crafts them, blending tradition with artistry.
Our Testimonial
Our Team Members

Rabi Shah
President

Mukesh Shakya
Vice President

Dr. Parbati Ghimire
Executive Member

Sunil Sharma
Executive Member

Pramod K Chaudhary
Executive Member

Inoue Sou
Chief Advisor

Sunita Thapa Magar
Hostel Warden

Vishal Bhattarai
Secretary