"A Voice Beyond Borders": Sundari Mica’s 17-Year Cultural Bridge in Nepal
"A Voice Beyond Borders": Sundari Mica’s 17-Year Cultural Bridge in Nepal
Born in Tokyo’s Ōta Ward, Sundari Mica began her musical journey with a band while studying at Waseda University. A transformative 1993 trip to Nepal introduced her to traditional folk music, inspiring her to master the Ressan Firiri rhythm and later form the Sundari Band upon returning to Japan. While working at a publishing company, she continued performing before relocating solo to Kathmandu in 1999 to immerse herself in Nepal’s musical heritage.
Learning from Legends Under the mentorship of Nepal’s iconic vocalist Mira Rana and percussion maestro Nuche Bahadur Dangol, Mica honed her craft. Her 2003 debut album, Sundari, recorded in both Nepali and Japanese- earned critical acclaim, followed by the Gorkha Dakshina Bahu Medal (4th Class) in 2004, making her the first Japanese recipient of this royal honor for cultural contributions. These achievements drew significant media attention in Japan.Harmonizing Recovery
After Nepal’s devastating 2015 earthquake, Mica composed the anthem Ekata Ko Geet Gaundaai (Uniting Hearts), organizing charity events across Japan to engage youth from both nations. Her vision extended to education through initiatives like the Terakoya Project, fostering cross-cultural exchange for future generations.
“Being a professional singer means preserving culture with conviction, not chasing profit,” Mica asserts. True to her name (Sundari translates to “beautiful woman” in Nepali), her cross-border artistry serves as a compass for women navigating diverse paths. “I’ll keep singing for friendship between our nations,” she vows.
Bridging Communities
With 6 million Nepalis (20% of Nepal’s population) working abroad and over 118,000 Nepali workers in Japan as of 2022, Mica’s dual role as a cultural ambassador-residing long-term in Nepal while advocating for its culture in Japan-holds exceptional significance.
Sundari Mica is confirmed to perform at the 13th International Red-White Singing Festival on September 19 at the Osaka-Kansai Expo’s Festival Station, an event promoting cross-cultural exchange through music.
Her efforts at April’s inaugural NEPAL FESTA Osaka (April 26–27, 2025) showcased her dedication to fostering mutual understanding amid Japan’s growing Nepali diaspora.
As a representative of the International Red-White Singing Festival organizing committee, I think Mica continues to leverage music to address cultural gaps. Her work exemplifies the festival’s mission to deepen international ties through artistic collaboration.
(By Kazumi Miyazaki, Global Community Editor)