Band History
There’s something magnetic about the quiet corners of ancient towns. Places where every brick has a secret, every narrow lane hums with forgotten stories, and the wind carries whispers from centuries ago. Bhaktapur, or Khwopa as it’s still affectionately called by locals, is one of those places. Located in the Kathmandu Valley’s eastern region, it isn’t just a city—it’s a living museum, a breathing chronicle of Newar heritage, tradition, and artistry. And hidden within its timeless alleys is a lesser-known yet soul-stirring spot: Kuma Sagar.
While the grandeur of Bhaktapur’s Durbar Square often steals the spotlight, Kuma Sagar exists quietly in the background—humble, peaceful, and profoundly symbolic. At first glance, it may appear like just another historic pond surrounded by old buildings. But like most things in Bhaktapur, it only reveals its depth to those willing to pause, look closer, and listen.
The word “Kuma” might evoke different interpretations. Some say it hints at the shape of the pond; others believe it is tied to local folklore. And “Sagar” translates to “ocean”—an ironic yet poetic contrast for something so contained. But then again, perhaps that’s the magic of places like this. They may be physically small, yet spiritually immense.
For generations, Kuma Sagar has been more than a water reservoir. It’s been a place of quiet reflection, a gathering spot for elders sharing tales, and a backdrop for cultural rituals and festivals. Long before the modern city encroached, when Bhaktapur was a thriving Malla kingdom, this pond was already playing its quiet role—balancing architecture with nature, chaos with calm.
The surrounding architecture offers a rare blend of the ancient and the enduring. Old brick houses lean toward the water like eavesdropping on its silent wisdom.
Timeworn wooden windows—carved with intricate patterns passed down through generations—frame the view and the lifestyle of the people who’ve called this place home. Unlike many historical sites where boundaries are drawn, and ropes cordon off the past, Kuma Sagar is still part of everyday life. Kids skip stones across its surface. Women gather by the edges to wash vegetables. And on certain mornings, the air smells faintly of incense, hinting at a quiet ritual in progress nearby.
What truly sets Kuma Sagar apart is its ability to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a scene untouched by time. In a world that spins faster by the day, that’s no small feat.
The pond serves as a metaphor for Khwopa—layered, reflective, and deeply rooted in history. Like Bhaktapur’s famous pottery square or the celebrated Nyatapola Temple, Kuma Sagar holds onto its identity through loud declarations and quiet endurance. It doesn’t demand attention—it earns it.
Visitors who stumble upon it often slow down, not out of obligation but instinct. Maybe that’s the pond’s quiet gift—a subtle invitation to sit, breathe, and remember that beauty isn’t always about spectacle. Sometimes, it’s about stillness. Sometimes, it’s about giving everything a purpose.
In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve Bhaktapur’s architectural gems, and Kuma Sagar has thankfully been part of that conversation. But preservation here isn’t just about restoring bricks and cleaning water. It’s about honoring stories, rituals, and the rhythm of daily life that continues to echo through the city’s alleys.
So, if you ever find yourself in Khwopa, let your feet guide you without a map. Wander past the tourist checkpoints and into the heart of the city. Let the layers of sound and silence lead you. And if you reach a still body of water bordered by timeworn bricks and quiet wisdom, chances are you’ve found Kuma Sagar. Sit for a while. Watch the ripples. You might hear history speaking.
Kuma Sagar And The Khwopa
- Vocal : Kuma Sagar
- Precussion : Rojman Maharjan
- Flute : Aman Mali
- Guitarist : Suman Gaida
- Sarangi : Roshik Jadhari
- Bassist : Roshan Bajracharya
A Mai Re Lyrics – (Released Year 2023)
Verse 1:
Hawa Ko Lahar Sangai Udirahana Maan Bho
Timro Tyo Basana Maanmai Chalyo Re
Hawa Ko Lahar Sangai Udirahana Maan Bho Ni
Timro Tyo Basana Maanmae Chalyo Re
Timro Tyo Boli Ma Maganaa Bhayera
Timro Agadi Phool Haru Pani
Cham Cham Cham Cham Nachyou Re
Ho..ho..ha.ha.ha..hmmm..hmm..
Verse 2:
Para Bata Sunda Timro Tyo Boli
Mutu Mai Lagera Maanai Ramayo Re
Para Bata Sunda Timro Tyo Boli
Mutu Mai Lagera Maanai Ramayo Re
Timro Tyo Herai Mai Laatha Ma Bhayera
Yo Beyrangi Jindagi Ma Indreni Banera Ayyo Re
Ho..ho..ha.ha.ha..
Timi Aaee Yo Dharti Rangayo Re
Verse 3:
Bataas Ma Udhae Jhae Lagnathalyo Yo Maan
Timrai Kalpanama Bhulejhai Lagyo Ni Yo Tan
Timrai Sansaar Ma Timrai Sansaar Ma
Doobna Maan Bho Ni Doobna Maan Bho Ni
Mera Sara Khushi Mera Sara Khushi
Gare Timrai Nimti Gare Timrai Nimti
Outro :
Hawa Ko Lahar Sangai Udirahana Maan Bho Ni
Timro Tyo Basana Maanamai Chalyo Re
Timro Tyo Boli Ma Maganaa Bhayera
Timro Agadi Phool Haru Pani
Cham Cham Cham Cham Nachyou Re
Timi Aaee Yo Dharti Rangeen Banayo Re
Kataula Jindagi Yo Timro Haath Samai Re…
You Can Listen A Mai Re By Kuma Sagar And The Khwopa
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