Saranya dance on verge of extinction

By Our Correspondent,Tamghas, Oct. 21: The traditional Saranya Nach (dance) is on the verge of vanishing in Gulmi. 

This unique traditional dance is performed in the religious sites of Gulmi, Arghakhanchi, Pyuthan and Palpa districts the day after Dashain.  

Saranya dance is performed using weapons like khukuri, sword, khuda, and khadga, which are offered by devotees in the temple.

Not long ago, the dance was performed playing with weapons, but this practice has been steadily declining. 

Some attribute this decline to safety concerns associated with displaying weapons during the dance. 

This dance is also renowned in other areas such as Dhurkot, Arje, Digam Charpala, Isma, and Choyaga and Chandrakot in the district. 

The most significant Saranya dance is performed in Arje Phulbari, Gulmi during the full moon day.

Bhupal Pokharel, the Chairman of Dhurkot Rural Municipality is determined to preserve this dance form. He believes that this tradition plays a crucial role in maintaining social harmony and unity and is willing to deploy people's representatives for its protection.

In Isma Kot, Chairman Bhagatsingh Khadka has taken steps to replace modern cement pillars with ancient-style wooden pillars, further contributing to the preservation of this tradition.

In addition to the Saranya dance, two other cultural traditions, Malashree and Patta dances are also fading away. These dances are performed to welcome Phulpati during Dashain. Unfortunately, due to a shift in mentality, these traditions have nearly disappeared. 

Narayan Ghimire, a teacher, laments that this captivating dance and song have vanished with the older generation. Shobhakhar Paiyani, who sings Malashree in Isma Rajasthal, expresses concern that there are no individuals or communities left to carry on this tradition. Older community members emphasise the importance of passing on these traditions to the younger generation to prevent the loss of this rich cultural heritage due to a gap between generations.