Melawa Devi Gurung

Born in Rumjatar, Okhaldhunga, Melawa Devi Gurung is known as the first female singer from Nepal. She recorded songs in Calcutta and became known for "Na Gharlai Ghar Kahincha Nari Nai Durbar Ho", and sang for Prime Minister Chandra Shumsher Rana.

She is also remembered as one of the earliest women composers in Nepali music, trained in classical and semi-classical styles — a pioneer who opened the way for every Nepali woman who followed her into music.