Youth preserving Lakhey in Beni

By Thakur Prasad Acharya,Beni, Aug. 23: Youth cultural activists are working to preserve the traditional Lakhey dance in Beni. The youth are passionately working to ensure the survival of the three-century-old dance form amidst concerns about its fading existence.

On the occasion of Nag Panchami on Monday, the streets of Beni Bazaar came alive with the Lakhey dance, a vital part of the Newari community’s heritage. Migration patterns saw the Newar community spread from places like Bhaktapur and Sankhu to Beni, bringing their rich culture with them.

Subin Shrestha, a representative of the young Newar generation, expressed that the younger members are now developing a renewed interest in their traditional art forms.

Although some Newari dances are vanishing, many, including the Lakhey dance remain, he added.  Subin, an advocate for the Nepal Bhasha Mankakhal, explained the tradition of performing a myriad of dances in Beni, particularly on Naga Panchami. 

Dancers adorn themselves with masks that have been in use for hundreds of years, moving rhythmically to the beats of instruments like the Mridangam, Madal, Jhyali, and Dholak

Angad Shrestha, a leader dedicated to preserving Newari art and culture, shared the historical significance of the Lakhey dance in Beni. It began after a demon named Ghanta Karna, known for causing societal chaos, was submerged at the confluence of the Myagdi and the Kaligandaki Rivers. 

To ensure the continuity of these traditions, efforts to teach the youth, and transfer the cultural knowledge and practices from one generation to the next are being made, said Shrestha. 

 He also expressed his concern that without such a transfer, the very identity of the Newar community risks extinction. 

Janesh Shrestha, president of Lyama Pucha, said that the youths would also showcase dances like Ropain, Goru, Jogi, and Hanuman dances this year.