Bhajan group formed in Dolakha

By Our Correspondent,Dolakha, Oct. 2: Bhajan connoisseurs of Bhimeshwor Municipality -8 of Dolakha district have formed Bocha Cultural BhajanMandali Group. 

This initiative, led by its president, Narahari Phuyal, seeks to revive and uphold the tradition of bhajans, devotional songs centred around God’s story. Phuyal attributes the group's formation to the overwhelming influence of international culture that has overshadowed bhajan singing practices.

Phuyal emphasises the group's vision of fostering inclusivity, particularly among the youth and women. 

He believes that women, being equal counterparts, should be represented in this art form. The group aspires to form a dedicated women's bhajan assembly. However, their mission faces challenges. Women's reluctance towards this initiative, coupled with the increasing trend of the younger generation moving abroad, poses threats to the preservation of this cultural heritage.

Even though the group is officially registered, it struggles with financial problems, which limit its ability to reach out and carry out activities, said Phuyal.

 This initiative began with contributions from 15 dedicated members, resulting in the formation of a five-member committee.

 Phuyal laments the lack of a dedicated space for members to assemble, share their talents and preserve the tradition.

 The ageing members, some aged above 85, fear the potential loss of this art if not passed down to subsequent generations. Their pleas for governmental support have fallen only on deaf ears.  

They hope to entice the younger generation with specialised training sessions, yet the absence of sponsors hinders these plans. 

Kaji Budhathoki, the ward chair, acknowledges the significance of cultural preservation. 

He highlighted that while they managed to provide traditional Nepali attire for 15 members last year, this year's budget constraints have hampered further assistance.