Tarai Madhes folk dances struggle to survive

By Our Correspondent, Rautahat, July 27: Dances that carry the traditional cultural identity of various ethnic groups of Tarai-Madhes are on the verge of extinction. 

Modern lifestyles, increasing western influence and the detachment of the new generation have led to the disappearance of original dances that have been part of ethnic and cultural identity for centuries. 

Traditional dances like Sakhiya, Maghauta, Jhumra, Lathi (Pana), Chhokara, Sajni-Birani of the indigenous Tharu community of the Terai are now rarely seen. 

Similarly, the Dhobiya of the Dhobi community, Chamarwa of the Chamar community, Netwa and Koharwa of the Dusadh community, Lorkain of the Yadav community, and the Thokarbaji dance performed at weddings and other festivals are also disappearing, said education expert Yogendra Prasad Yadav.

 According to him, these dances are not only a means of entertainment but also a living symbol of ethnic identity, cultural originality and social unity. The priceless cultural heritage that has been handed down for generations has been in danger in recent times due to the new generation not showing interest in their own original culture. 

Tharu folk dance artist Nabin Chaudhary expressed regret that despite taking risks to preserve traditional culture, the new generation has not shown the will to learn and continue. 

He argues that the tradition of singing and dancing together by the community strengthens social harmony, brotherhood, and mutual unity. 

According to Nawaraj Dahal, former vice-chairman of the Nepal Cultural Association Rautahat, along with Rautahat, the original dances of various ethnic groups are rapidly disappearing in the Tarai districts of Bara, Parsa, Sarlahi and other places.  

Social activist and legal practitioner Bipin Gautam has pointed out the need to collaborate between local levels, cultural organisations, and communities to document, train, conduct cultural festivals, and conduct conservation campaigns at the school level. 

He believes that if effective conservation measures are taken on time, the cultural identity of the Tarai-Madhes can be safely passed on to future generations. 

Meanwhile, the Kattikeshwor Kunwar Mela, considered the largest in the district, is being held every year in Chandrapur Municipality-8, Rautahat, to showcase and preserve the traditional folk culture of Nepal's indigenous Tharu community. 

According to Jagarnath Chaudhary, President of Tharu Kalyankarini Sabha, Rautahat, the fair begins the day after the Samachkewa festival. 

The fair features displays, folk dances and lathi dance performances that reflect Tharu culture.