Arjun Pradhan, USA
In what has become a landmark chapter in the history of Nepali reality television, ‘Mero Voice Universe’ and ‘Mero Dance Universe’ have emerged as powerful platforms celebrating Nepali identity, culture, and talent on a global scale. Organised by the Intra National Welfare and Support Foundation, these reality shows have united the global Nepali diaspora in a shared cultural mission.
Founded by Dilli Adhikari, the Intra National Welfare and Support Foundation envisioned a platform to reconnect scattered Nepali communities through music and dance. Speaking at a program in Kathmandu, Adhikari stated, “These two shows were conceived to promote unity among Nepalis across the world through culture and to strengthen national identity through intergenerational cultural transmission.”
Auditions Across Continents
In late 2023, the Intra National Welfare and Support Foundation launched a global audition campaign, with virtual and physical auditions held in over a dozen countries including the USA, UK, Australia, Japan, South Korea, India, Myanmar, Bhutan, Qatar, UAE, and Thailand. From these auditions, a total of 240 participants (120 in each show) were selected, representing a vibrant cross-section of Nepali talent from around the world.
As of early April 2025 (Chaitra–Baisakh), contestants began arriving in Kathmandu, many of whom were setting foot in Nepal for the first time. Contestants from Bhutan and Myanmar were especially emotional, calling it a spiritual return to their ancestral land.
According to Executive Director Chudamani Bhattarai, the shows have connected Nepali-origin individuals from over 60 countries. The Intra National Welfare and Support Foundation managed all logistics, including accommodation, meals, and security, offering participants an international-level experience in their motherland.
The Golden Moment: Pritam and Khushi Crowned Champions
The climactic moment came when Pritam (Prithviraj) Rai, from Sikkim (India), and Khushi Karki, from Thailand, were crowned the first-ever winners of Mero Voice Universe and Mero Dance Universe respectively.
Pritam captivated audiences with his powerful vocals, deep expression, and authentic connection to Nepali musical traditions. In his victory speech, he said, “This win isn’t just mine. It belongs to every Nepali across the world. Though I came from Sikkim, Nepal will always be in my heart.”
Khushi impressed judges with her mastery in modern, classical, and fusion dance forms, embodying the strength and grace of Nepali womanhood. After being declared the winner, she said, “As soon as I stepped into Nepal, I felt like I was home. This victory is a win for all diasporic Nepalis.”
Each winner was awarded a cash prize of NPR 10 million (approx. USD 75,000) — the highest in the history of Nepali reality shows.
Roots of the Movement: From “Cups” to “Universe”
Before the grand “Universe” editions, INWSF had been running ‘Mero Voice Cup’ and ‘Mero Dance Cup’ since 2015/16. These competitions, held virtually in countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, and the UK, helped thousands of young Nepalis express themselves through music and dance while fostering pride in their language and heritage.
Past Winners:
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Dance Cup Winners:
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2016: Puni Gurung
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2017: Manita Magar
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2019: Bishal Rai
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2022: Renuka Rai
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Voice Cup Winners:
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2019: An Rai
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2022: Prabin Bardewa
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These winners received $10,000 cash prizes and new vehicles, highlighting the foundation’s commitment to rewarding excellence.
A Celebration of Nepali Identity
Mero Voice Universe and Mero Dance Universe are not just competitions — they are cultural celebrations, creating emotional and artistic bridges between generations of Nepalis worldwide.
With broadcasts set to air soon on Nepal Television, the shows are poised to enter every Nepali home, from Kathmandu to California, reinforcing a shared identity through the power of performance.
These shows mark more than entertainment; they are a cultural movement, a testament to unity, creativity, and pride in being Nepali — wherever in the world one may be.
