A young man’s journey from Bhutan to a musical spotlight in Nepal…
NGAWANG JAMPHEL
Thimphu
Wearing his traditional gho, eyes lit with determination and humility, 27-year-old Ram Kumar Rai from Dumtoe Gewog, Dorokha under Samtse Dzongkhag , steps into the spotlight of Mero Voice Universe Season 2—an international singing competition in Nepal, that brings together the best of Nepali-language music talent from around the world.
Among hundreds of trained, seasoned performers, Ram Kumar is the sole contestant from Bhutan, and every note he sings carries not just his voice, but the spirit of a nation.
“Music has always been the language of my soul,” he told Bhutan Times. “And the Mero Voice Universe felt like the perfect stage to share that with the world.”
For the 27-year-old singer, this is more than just a competition. It’s a personal mission. Each performance is a bridge between cultures, an offering of art wrapped in Bhutanese identity and soul.
The roots of Ram Kumar’s musical journey go back to his early school days, where a simple moment planted the seed of a lifelong dream.
“I still remember the moment I first sang in front of my classmates as a child,” he said. “The way their eyes lit up made me realize how powerful music could be. From that day on, singing became my safe space and my greatest joy.”
That classroom stage may have been small, but it was the beginning of something far bigger. As he grew, so did his passion. He sang at school events, village gatherings, and eventually national platforms like The Voice of Bhutan, where he made a name for himself.
The Mero Voice Universe stage is vastly different from the cozy performances back home. It is a highly competitive arena filled with artists who have undergone years of formal training, with teams of vocal coaches and stylists.
Ram Kumar, however, came with something else—authenticity, heart, and a deep connection to his cultural roots.
“The journey seems really challenging since there are all trained and professional singers,” he admits. “Still then, I’m trying my best la.”
He stands tall not just as a singer, but as a cultural ambassador. Through every costume and every song, he proudly represents Bhutan.
Whether it’s the subtle use of traditional instruments or the powerful emotion in his voice, Ram Kumar brings a piece of home to each performance.
“I found a great opportunity to show the beauty of my country to the world—through our cultural dress and traditions.”
One of the biggest challenges he faces is song selection. In the early rounds, contestants could choose songs that fit their style. Ram Kumar picked tunes that resonated with his personal journey—melodies filled with emotion and meaning.
“I choose songs that speak to my soul—melodies that carry emotion, depth, and a sense of who I am as a Bhutanese artist.”
But after the second round, the format changed. Songs were now selected by the show’s producers, regardless of whether they matched a contestant’s natural strengths.
“Still, I tried to fit in by adding emotions and feelings,” he said. “I did my best to make every song feel like it came from me.”
His adaptability has paid off. Judges have praised his expressive singing and ability to connect with the audience—something that can’t be taught in music school.
Though far from home, Ram Kumar’s heart remains tethered to Bhutan. He sees himself not just as a contestant, but as a messenger of Bhutanese stories and values.
“No matter where I sing, my heart always carries the rhythm of Bhutan,” he says. “Through my voice, I weave in the values, stories, and soul of my culture—whether it’s in the style, the emotion, or the message.”
He speaks with quiet pride about what it means to represent Bhutan on a global stage.
“From adapting to language differences, embracing new dress codes, and navigating varied musical styles—it wasn’t always easy. But every challenge helped me grow stronger and prouder to represent Bhutan.”
Back home, Ram Kumar’s journey is inspiring young people who may have never seen someone from Bhutan on such a platform. He believes this is the most meaningful part of his experience.
“To the young hearts in Bhutan who dream of singing on big stages—never forget where you come from, because your roots are your strength,” he says.
“Embrace every challenge with courage, let your culture shine through your art, and trust that your voice matters. If my journey can inspire even one of you to chase your dreams, then every step has been worth it.”
He receives messages daily from students, fans, and fellow musicians back in Bhutan. Many thank him for putting Bhutan on the global music map.
As the competition enters its final stages, the pressure increases. Yet, Ram Kumar remains grounded.
“Even if I get eliminated,” he said, “I will go to the topmost show—Voice of Nepal—next.”
