“Having been a part of a music video that’s historic in the context of Nepali inclusive music, it’s surreal for me to see where I am today as I never even thought I could dream of anything big in music as a visually-impaired person,” reflects Gagan Ale, a talented musician.
Gagan came to Kathmandu from Dharan as a person with immense musical vision but believed that being visually-impaired confined his talent. His unique skills in translating a Hindi song to Nepali initialized his association with Blind Rocks during an online competition. Two years after the competition, he decided to come to Kathmandu for his Bachelor’s in Music and Literature, and knowing people from Blind Rocks made him feel emotionally secured in the new city.
Being aware of his abilities, Blind Rocks approached Gagan to compose their official song which he aced in. His song created an impact so indelible that he became an official member of the Blind Rocks. Alongside, he started participating in various events and competitions that came across through Blind Rocks. One of the major events held by Blind Rocks is, Mr. and Miss Blind Rockers International, which Gagan participated in and won the talent round. With an extensive gratitude towards the competition, he often mentions that the competition was beyond just a beauty contest as he learnt something so basic as dining etiquette, which even the families of most visually impaired people neglect to teach. Further, with Blind Rocks, he went for rock climbing, drama, and on-screen acting which he believes, amplified his interpersonal skills.
Gagan says, “Blind Rocks’ objectives of enhancing art and adventure skills in people with disabilities helped me grow in ways I never thought was possible for visually-impaired people. From learning how to hold mic on stage to getting trained on gestures, postures, and ways to interact with audiences, I learnt so much.”
He continues, “I was even able to produce a music video with a blind model opposite me, which can be considered a historic music video as it consists of a blind model duo for the first time in Nepal. And the music video is gaining a considerate number of views.”
Prior to joining Blind Rocks, Gagan never thought there were enough platforms to showcase his musical abilities. However, with Blind Rocks, not only did his musical growth multiply but his multiple skills like acting and adventurous sports came to light. Blind Rocks became a backbone against his helplessness and transformed his frustration into strength in no time.
Today, Gagan challenges himself through art and adventure, contributing creative ideas to engage the crowd, creating a reciprocal relationship with Blind Rocks. He is currently a lead musician of the Blind Rocks Band and is also working on his own independent music. What he is today has made him believe that no talent is left obscure as long as there are organizations like Blind Rocks that put effort to make everyone grow in their own fashion.