Introduction

Sakchem is a folk band consisting of school-going students from Kirtipur, who are devoted to Nepali culture and folk instruments. Sakchem, which means ‘ability’, reflects not only the bands’ ability to accomplish their goals but also their high-powered will to bring about change in society. Bijen Maharjan one of the band members defined Sakchem as the capability to accomplish something. “We think we have the potential to change our society that is highly influenced by western culture and music,” elaborated Bijen.

The band was formed a year back when five schoolboys of Pushpa Sadan Boarding School — Prince Nepali (sarangi), Rishu Nepali (khin and percussions), Rahul Nepali (flute), Bijen Maharjan (percussions) and John Maharjan (flute) came up with the idea to form a folk band in order to preserve Nepali folk culture and music. They shared that they started performing together for the school assembly and later Rohit Nepali (on effects) joined the band after the band members felt that they needed something extra in their compositions.

Sakchem band, which aims at influencing the younger generation, is no exception to the influences of other bands. Kutumba is their inspiration. Sakchem has been learning music from their school teachers but there are others who have been helping them
out. “We are especially learning from our school teachers but sometimes Prashant Maharjan of Karma band, Shyam Nepali, sarangi player and members of Kutumba have been directing and assisting on our compositions,” said Bijen.


They have been performing in different ritual ceremonies and cultural programmes in Kirtipur, last year they also performed at Gokarna Forest Resort. Besides preserving culture and providing entertainment the band has also been performing in support of child rights and for orphans at various functions. Festivals by Kutumba, You and Me by Sukarma are some of their all time favourites, which they perform regularly. They added that that they are trying to give a classical touch to their compositions. Sakchem Creation and Jhulkiyeko Gham are their latest compositions.

Though they are getting warm appreciation in some circles they still feel that their kind of music is neglected. “The kind of feedback we receive varies. When we perform in cultural programmes, people encourage us. But while performing in commercial concerts we do not get any encouragement,” added Rishu.
As the band members are school students, they find it difficult to manage time for practice. They do jam up once in every two days. “When we have to participate in programmes we practice everyday
but otherwise we manage time to practice once in two days and every Saturday,” said Bijen. With their towering aims, the band members at times have conflicting thoughts but they affirm that they respect each others’ opinions if it helps the band in anyways. “We sometimes face conflicting thoughts and decisions, but ultimately we all are able to work in consensus when we think that idea, be it about a composition or any other, is actually beneficial for overall development of Sakchem,” said Bijen.

Though they have high aims Sakchem does face economic difficulties. “Somehow we have been managing till now. Imagine Rainbow in Kathmandu, an INGO working for orphans has been helping us but we still need a good promoter who can help us expose our talent in other parts, so that we can influence and inspire youngsters with what we are doing,” said Nikesh Maharjan, band manager.
When our own indigenous folk culture has become an alien culture to the new generation, younger people like these in some corners of society are coming up with such endeavours that deserves to be applauded. “Without our culture we would be nowhere since it is a significant medium that identifies us as a Nepali across the globe,” commented Nikesh.