In 2022, he achieved the milestone of becoming Nepal’s most-streamed artist on Spotify, a question many had asked: what happens when a software engineer from Kathmandu transforms into a musical icon? Sajjan Raj Vaidya’s groundbreaking music video for “Hataarindai, Bataasindai” became the soundtrack for Nepal’s first official pride parade in 2019, establishing him as both a musical innovator and social advocate who dared to represent LGBTQ+ communities in conservative Nepali society.
Sajjan Raj Vaidya is a renowned Nepali singer, songwriter, and music producer celebrated for his fusion of acoustic pop and folk music. Born in Kathmandu and now based in New York, this multi-talented artist balances dual careers as both a musician and full-stack web developer. His breakthrough singles “Hawaijahaj” (2016) and “Chitthi Bhitra” (2018) established him as a voice for modern Nepal while honoring traditional musical roots. Vaidya represents a new generation of Nepali artists who leverage global digital platforms to share authentic cultural stories with worldwide audiences.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sajjan Raj Vaidya (Given name: Sajjan, Family name: Vaidya) |
| Born (Age) | September 10, 1993 (Age 31 as of 2025) |
| Nationality | Nepali |
| Birthplace | Kathmandu, Nepal |
| Current Base | New York, USA |
| Occupation | Singer, Songwriter, Music Producer, Full Stack Web Developer |
| Active Years | 2014–Present |
| Education | Kathmandu University School of Management (KUSOM), Baruch College |
| Notable For | “Hawaijahaj,” “Chitthi Bhitra,” “Hataarindai, Bataasindai”; LGBTQ+ advocacy |
| Brother | Sushen Raj Vaidya |
| Partner | Publicly associated with Arogya Khadka |
| YouTube Subscribers | Over 1.5M |
| Instagram Followers | 336K+ |
| Musical Style | Acoustic Pop, Folk Fusion |
Early Life & Musical Foundations in Kathmandu
Sajjan Raj Vaidya was born on September 10, 1993, in Kathmandu, the bustling capital of Nepal. Growing up in Nepal’s cultural heart during the late 1990s and early 2000s, he witnessed the country’s transformation from a traditional monarchy to a modern federal republic. This period of change would later influence his music’s themes of evolution and identity.
His family provided the foundation for his musical development. His mother taught him the fundamentals of singing, while his father introduced him to diverse musical genres ranging from traditional Nepali folk to international pop and rock. His brother, Sushen Raj Vaidya, also played a role in shaping his artistic vision. “My story with music began with my family,” Vaidya has stated, crediting them as his primary influences.
Vaidya’s educational path reflects his dual interests in technology and arts. After completing his schooling at Aadarsha Vidya Mandir in Lalitpur, he pursued higher education at Kathmandu University School of Management (KUSOM), one of Nepal’s premier business schools. Later, he continued his studies at Baruch College in New York, where he studied finance while developing his skills as a full-stack web developer.
Career Evolution: From Software Engineer to Musical Icon
The 2014 Debut: Aaja Matra and Digital Beginnings
Sajjan Raj Vaidya launched his music career in 2014 with his debut single “Aaja Matra” while simultaneously working as a full-stack web developer. His technical background proved invaluable during Nepal’s early digital music era, allowing him to navigate platforms like YouTube and Facebook when traditional music distribution channels remained limited.
The debut single showcased his signature approach: authentic Nepali lyrics paired with contemporary acoustic arrangements. While “Aaja Matra” didn’t achieve immediate commercial success, it established the foundation for his artistic identity and demonstrated his commitment to creating music that honored Nepali sensibilities while embracing modern production techniques.
Breakthrough Success: Hawaijahaj and Chitthi Bhitra
Vaidya’s career breakthrough came in 2016 with “Hawaijahaj,” produced by Fuzz Factory Productions. The song’s success proved that Nepali audiences were ready for music that respected traditional themes while incorporating international influences. The track’s popularity across social media platforms established Vaidya as a rising star in Nepal’s evolving music scene.
“Chitthi Bhitra,” released in 2018, became his defining hit and currently has over 61 million views on YouTube. The song explores love and communication through the metaphor of letters, resonating with both young Nepalis navigating modern relationships and older generations familiar with written correspondence. This universal appeal demonstrated Vaidya’s ability to create music that transcends generational boundaries.
Musical Style: Acoustic Pop Folk Fusion with Nepali Roots
Vaidya’s music blends acoustic pop, folk, and electronic elements, creating a unique sound that incorporates traditional Nepali instrumentation with modern arrangements. His approach includes instruments like the sarangi and madal alongside contemporary guitars and synthesizers, producing a distinctly Nepali sound with international appeal.
His songwriting explores themes of love, hope, self-discovery, and social progress. Unlike artists who rely on direct statements, Vaidya crafts metaphorical narratives that allow listeners to find personal meaning while celebrating collective Nepali identity.
Cultural Impact and LGBTQ+ Advocacy
Hataarindai, Bataasindai: A Social Milestone
In 2019, Vaidya created significant cultural impact when “Hataarindai, Bataasindai” featured both heterosexual and homosexual couples, including scenes of same-sex intimacy rarely seen in Nepali media. This representation wasn’t accidental. Vaidya explained: “When I wrote Hataarindai, Bataasindai, it was independent of the video concept. We decided that the underrepresentation of the LGBTQ community in Nepal was an important issue that needed to be addressed.”
The song became an anthem during Nepal’s first official pride parade in July 2019, demonstrating music’s power to drive social change. By using his platform to promote inclusivity, Vaidya helped normalize LGBTQ+ representation in Nepali popular culture, encouraging other artists to address social issues through their work.
Digital Dominance and Global Recognition
In 2022, Vaidya achieved the milestone of becoming the most-streamed Nepali artist on Spotify both domestically and internationally. This achievement reflects his global appeal, particularly among Nepal’s diaspora communities worldwide. His presence on platforms like Apple Music and Spotify has introduced Nepali music to international audiences.
His success validates a new model for Nepali artists, proving that commercial viability can be achieved independently through digital platforms and international touring. These figures demonstrate how artists can achieve commercial success while maintaining cultural authenticity.
Discography and Creative Evolution
Vaidya’s musical catalog spans over a decade, showcasing his artistic growth and versatility. Following his early successes, he released notable tracks including “BLYHL” (February 2020), “Phutki Janey Jovan” (May 2020), which featured global pandemic footage with emphasis on Nepali communities, and “Lukaamaari” (January 2021).
His 2022 releases “Sasto Mutu” and “Ek Sarvanaam” were followed by a series of 2023 hits: “Dhairya,” “Hyatteri,” “Aayen Ma,” “Nothing In My Head Besides Timi,” “Ujeli,” and “Suna Kaanchi.” In 2024, he unveiled “Malaai Chaana Na,” “Ghumi Phiri,” and “Nepali Angreji,” with his 2024 single “9841” being a notable release from that period.
His YouTube series “Katha” provides acoustic versions of his songs alongside stories about their creation, offering fans insight into his creative process and strengthening artist-audience connections.
Personal Life and Relationships
Relationship Status and Privacy
Sajjan Raj Vaidya maintains relative privacy about his personal relationships, though he has been publicly associated with Arogya Khadka. While some sources suggest they are married, Vaidya has not officially confirmed his marital status. Khadka appears to work closely with his professional activities, but the exact nature of their relationship remains private.
This discretion reflects Vaidya’s mature approach to fame—maintaining authentic fan connections while preserving personal boundaries. In Nepal’s celebrity culture, where relationships often become public entertainment, his measured approach demonstrates respect for privacy and professional focus.
Balancing Technology and Music Careers
Vaidya continues working as a full-stack web developer while pursuing his music career, challenging traditional notions that artists must choose between passion and practical professions. This dual identity resonates particularly with young Nepalis facing pressure to pursue “stable” careers while nurturing creative aspirations.
His success in both technology and music provides a model for balancing artistic fulfillment with financial security, proving that creative and technical skills can complement rather than compete with each other.
Current Projects and Future Directions
Vaidya toured Nepal with his “Ekaadeshmaa 2024 Nepal” concert series, reconnecting with his home audience during the country’s major festival season. The timing demonstrated his continued connection to Nepali cultural rhythms despite his international presence.
Recent releases like “Nepali Angreji” explore themes of language and cultural identity, addressing the bicultural experience of being Nepali while living abroad. This theme resonates particularly with Nepal’s diaspora communities, who navigate similar identity questions in their daily lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
• Q: How old is Sajjan Raj Vaidya?
A: Sajjan Raj Vaidya is 31 years old as of 2025, born on September 10, 1993.
• Q: Is Sajjan Raj Vaidya married?
A: Sajjan Raj Vaidya’s marital status is not publicly confirmed, though he is associated with Arogya Khadka.
• Q: What was Sajjan Raj Vaidya’s first song?
A: His debut single was “Aaja Matra,” released in 2014.
• Q: Where is Sajjan Raj Vaidya now?
A: He is based in New York, USA, but frequently travels to Nepal for concerts and projects.
• Q: What are Sajjan Raj Vaidya’s most famous songs?
A: His most popular tracks include “Hawaijahaj,” “Chitthi Bhitra,” “Hataarindai, Bataasindai,” and “Sasto Mutu.”
• Q: What is Sajjan Raj Vaidya’s real name?
A: Sajjan Raj Vaidya is his real name, with Sajjan as his given name and Vaidya as his family name.
• Q: What education did Sajjan Raj Vaidya receive?
A: He studied at Kathmandu University School of Management (KUSOM) and Baruch College in New York.
• Q: What is Sajjan Raj Vaidya’s musical style?
A: His music is best described as an acoustic pop-folk fusion that blends modern Western arrangements with traditional Nepali lyrical and instrumental influences.
Legacy and Continuing Influence
Sajjan Raj Vaidya’s impact extends beyond entertainment to cultural representation and social progress. His success demonstrates that Nepali artists can achieve international recognition while maintaining authentic cultural expression. By leveraging digital platforms effectively, he has created new pathways for independent Nepali musicians to reach global audiences.
His advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights through “Hataarindai, Bataasindai” established him as an artist willing to address social issues responsibly. This courage has encouraged other Nepali entertainers to use their platforms for positive social change, contributing to broader conversations about inclusion and acceptance in Nepali society.
From a Kathmandu-born student to a New York-based international artist, Sajjan Raj Vaidya represents the modern Nepali professional who successfully navigates multiple identities and careers. His story inspires young Nepalis to pursue their creative passions while maintaining practical skills, proving that artistic and professional success can coexist.
Through his music, advocacy, and example, Vaidya continues shaping Nepal’s cultural conversation about identity, progress, and the power of authentic expression in a connected world. His work serves as a bridge connecting Nepal to its global diaspora while introducing international audiences to contemporary Nepali culture and values.
