Dhrupad Gurukul Kathmandu, located in the serene Kathmandu Valley amidst the breathtaking Himalayas, is a sanctuary for the ancient and meditative art of Dhrupad music. Established in 2013 under the blessings and guidance of the legendary Gundecha Brothers, the Gurukul was founded by their disciples, Vishal Bhattarai and Inoue Sou, to preserve and promote Dhrupad, the oldest form of Hindustani classical music.
The Essence of Dhrupad
Dhrupad is deeply rooted in the Vedic tradition, originating from the chanting of hymns and mantras in the Sama Veda. Known as Naad Yoga (the yoga of sound), it is a disciplined art form that seeks to evoke inner peace and spiritual awareness. The meditative approach and emphasis on the purity of ragas and swaras make it a profound practice for both performers and listeners.


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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

"In Dhrupad, we generate sound (naad) using the entire body and especially utilize the Sahasrara Chakra for the perfection of notes. Both of you should continue practicing everything you have learned with careful reflection and mindfulness. Congratulations and blessings for your success!"28 Aug 2016

The Gundecha Brothers

Dhrupad maestro, Guru Jii

"I feel fortunate to be a student of Dhrupad at the Gurukul because the way sound is explored here inspires and encourages me to delve deeper into the essence of music." 15 Feb, 2025

Rajin khadka

Student

"Very special human being, spirit, music, thinking, mind. Big, big heart like universal, precious Dhrupad music. I learned the way of living from both of you. From morning to night, same attention and effort with all kinds of physical and mental work, especially with Dhrupad music." 2nd May, 2013

Amita Sinha Mahapatra

Dhrupad vocalist

"You both have always inspired me as sincere students of Dhrupad. Your honesty will definitely be expressed through your singing all over the world. We all have, fortunately, great Gurus for a lifetime, and now it is our privilege to enjoy our journey with sincerity." 21 May 2013

Chintan Upadhyay

Dhrupad Vocalist



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