Nepali singer/songwriter based in New York City, Bartika Eam Rai (वर्तिका एम राई), began her musical career in Kathmandu's underground music scene before becoming a solo artist and releasing her debut EP titled Bimbaakash in 2016. The EP contained songs like "Khai" and "Najeek" which became a digital success and won her the Song of the Year and Best Vocal Performance (Female) at Hits FM Music Awards 2018. She later released her first full-length album Taral in June 2018.