AHF is the official charity partner of 1974 AD’s ‘Rock Yatra’ Australia Tour
The Australian Himalayan Foundation is thrilled to be the official charity partner for 1974 AD’s upcoming Rock Yatra Australia Tour, honouring the legendary folk-rock band’s incredible 30-year musical legacy ("Yatra" meaning journey).
About Nepali band 1974 AD
Nepal's legendary folk-rock band 1974 AD returns, widely regarded as one of the most iconic and influential rock bands in Nepal's musical history. Formed in Kathmandu in 1994, the band revolutionised the Nepali music scene by blending Western rock, blues and jazz with traditional Nepali folk instruments, melodies and ragas. Over their decades-long career, their music has become deeply woven into Nepali pop culture, addressing themes of patriotism, unity, love and social awareness.
To put them into perspective for an Australian audience, think of 1974 AD as the Cold Chisel of Nepal. They broke into a traditional music scene and reshaped modern South Asian rock, fusing classic-rock, driven by blues-heavy guitar solos and tight rhythm sections, with traditional Nepalese folk melodies and bansuri (bamboo flute) lines. Their unique blend of folk melodies and classic rock has inspired generations of music lovers around the world.
Meet the band
The band’s iconic sound relies on a tight-knit lineup of six musicians: founding bassist Nirakar Yakthumba and guitarist/vocalist Phiroj Shyangden laid the band's initial groove foundation, while lead singer and drummer Adrian Pradhan gives their rock tracks their signature raspy, high-energy voice. Manoj Kumar KC brings bluesy lead guitar and keyboard work, while percussionist Sanjay Shrestha adds rich rhythmic layers by blending traditional drums with Western kit playing. Floating above it all is master bamboo flutist Manose Singh, the first Nepali musician ever nominated for a Grammy Award, whose classical improvisations give the band their unforgettable folk-rock crossover identity.
What makes them a household name across the global Nepali diaspora is their deep emotional connection to identity, unity and culture. Renowned for timeless hits including Sambodhan, Parelima, Pinjada Ko Suga, Hidda Hiddai and Chaubandi Cholo, 1974 AD wrote anthems during periods of political flux in Nepal that brought people together across divides. Their track Nepali Ho functions almost as an unofficial national anthem celebrating shared pride, while timeless romantic ballads like Parelima carry a cross-generational nostalgia for Nepali listeners worldwide. In a live setting, they were the first act in Nepal to sell out 60,000+ capacity stadium shows.
Come along for an incredible night of music
1974 AD’s Rock Yatra Australia Tour is coming to major cities across Australia this September and October. Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering 1974 AD’s music for the first time, this promises to be a night filled with nostalgia, energy and unforgettable live performances.
If you love festival vibes, world-class musicianship and discovering iconic acts from around the globe, this isn't a show to miss. Expand your musical horizons, catch a legendary arena act and book your tickets before it sells out!
Rock Yatra Australia Tour Dates
September 26: Canberra (Canberra Greyhound Racing Club Symonston)
September 30: Newcastle (The Great Hall, University of Newcastle)
As the official charity partner for the Australian tour, the Australian Himalayan Foundation is proud to turn these exciting concert nights and cultural celebrations into a force for good. Donations and support generated throughout the tour will help fund AHF’s vital education, health and environment programs across remote Himalayan communities.