Shyam is an important teacher and mentor of the next generations of Sarangi players, working with Project Sarangi in Nepal, and the Imagine Rainbow Project (Switzerland/Nepal), aimed at fostering self-empowerment through the creative arts, and keeping the tradition alive. Shyam founded the Himalayan Heritage Cultural Academy in Boston, MA, giving a much-needed platform for Nepali folk music and dance to be taught in the USA.  Shyam has taught and mentored the newest generation of Sarangi players including the founder of DYF Dr Sachin Maskey and his son Sarin Maskey.

Awards and recognition of his significant contribution to Nepali folk music and the Sarangi around the world include the Mah Kwah Cha award from the government of Nepal, the Governor’s Citation from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the honorary consulate, Italian Embassy in Kathmandu.  Shyam is fluent in Italian, English, Newari, Nepali, and proficient in Japanese and French.  Shyam received a Teaching Artist Grant for 2018-2019 from the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

Shyam joined the DYF team as an advisory board member in 2020 and already has made significant contributions to make some meaningful impacts.