KATHMANDU: The year 2081 has also been a turning point for the Nepali music industry because Nepali music is not just entertaining Nepalis but also drawing huge international recognition. With digital media like YouTube, Spotify, and iTunes, Nepali music has crossed borders, reaching music lovers all around the globe and opening a new window to stardom abroad for Nepali artists. With Nepali communities spreading worldwide, Nepali songs are hitting global trending charts, something unthinkable until now. There is a list of four Nepali songs that appeared on the YouTube Global Trending page in 2081, which in itself tells a lot about how Nepali music has been gaining popularity and momentum worldwide.

• Rukum Maikot

SD Yogi’s “Rukum Maikot,” which was on Khusma, was a surprise hit, going viral on YouTube globally for 1.5 months. Its folk melody, touching lyrics, and stunning visuals of Western Nepal traditions glued the hearts of people everywhere. Even more astounding is that “Rukum Maikot” went up to number 73 in Top 100 Most Watched Music Videos Worldwide, collecting more than 120 million hits and counting. The song touched hearts of music lovers across the world and shaped millions of TikTok videos in which fans reproduced the song sequences, spreading it even further internationally.Its blend of nostalgia and real emotion made it an anthem of choice for many, in keeping with the nature of Nepali culture and appealing to people way outside the borders of Nepal.

• Kashmire Pachhyauri

Kashmire Pachhyauri was the first Nepali song to discover itself on YouTube’s Global Trending list. After eight months of release, it broke into the 99th position. With simple, but genuine lyrics and a sound folk music background, it soon turned into a hit worldwide, especially among the Nepali diaspora. Already watched over 81 million times, this song is an example that traditional Nepali music can succeed even in today’s age of the internet.

• Bardali

Sushant K.C.’s Bardali also reached the global trending list at position 93 this year, thanks to its soothing melody and sentimental lyrics. The song beautifully depicts modern love and commitment, and an interesting music video featuring Sushant and renowned stars like Indrakala Rai and Swastima Khadka. With over 71 million views, Bardali has captured the hearts of people far and wide.

• Dushman Hereko Herai

Durgesh Thapa’s Dushman Hereko Herai was a sensation within three months of its launch when it hit 77th rank on YouTube Global Trending list. The song with peppy lyrics, energetic performance, and unique video went viral not only in Nepal but also in Hindi-speaking regions. The song has climbed to 56.6 million views, and success of the song catapulted Durgesh’s career to newer heights.

Along with these hits, Ekdev Limbu’s Jhim Jhimyune Aankhale even made it into YouTube’s Global 100 Chart, another badge of honor for Nepali music. These milestones prove that Nepali music is not just a local treasure but a global sensation, and as social media and online sites keep expanding, the world will hear much more about Nepali music.