Saraya dance on verge of extinction

By Tilachan Pandey,Tamghas, Oct. 17: The historic Saraya nach (traditional dance) in Gulmi is on the brink of extinction. The tradition of performing the Saraya dance the day after Dashain tika at the religious shrines in western districts such as Gulmi, Arghakhanchi, Pyuthan and Palpa is fading.

The dance involves devotees clashing weapons like khukuri, sword, khunda and khadga against each other while chanting the “Wakkhai Wa” language. In the past, the dance was performed by physically swinging and displaying these weapons.

However, this practice has declined in recent times, with many people attributing it to concerns over potential accidents caused by the weapon demonstrations. Despite this decline, Saraya dance is still popular in areas such as Dhurkot, Arje, Digam Charpala, Isma, Choygha and Chandrakot in the district.

The Saraya dance performed in Arje Phulbari, Gulmi, is considered the largest in the district. It is traditionally performed on the full moon day.

Bhupal Pokhrel, Chairperson of Dhurkot Rural Municipality, said that he will work continuously to preserve the Saraya dance in the district. He stressed that dance plays a vital role in maintaining social harmony and unity. 

He also said that he actively participates in the dance at Dhurkot by wielding weapons and called for collective efforts to preserve the tradition.

Bhagat Singh Khadka, Chairperson of Isma Rural Municipality, said that the local government has prioritised the preservation of Saraya dance. He acknowledged that the tradition has not been passed down to the younger generation and assured that efforts are being made to preserve and promote it, including plans for awareness campaigns and initiatives involving local representatives. He reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to safeguarding cultural traditions.

Patta and Malshree also receding 

In addition to Saraya, the Patta dance and the Malshree tune, traditionally performed during the Phulpati procession, are also on decline. 

The custom of bringing Phulpati from Chapatari and showcasing the Patta dance and Malshree singing for around an hour and a half at the Ismakot field has also faded, according to Patta dance expert Khum Bahadur Basnet.

He attributed this decline to the mindset that these traditions are meant for others, leading to their gradual disappearance. Narayan Ghimire, a teacher at Anandapur Secondary School, said that this fascinating dance and song have faded with the demise of older generation. 

Shobhakhar Paiani, a Malshree singer from Isma Rajsthal, lamented that there is no one left to sing the Malshree after his generation.

The Saraya dance faces the same fate. The elderly in the area stress the importance of teaching younger generations these traditional songs and dances to preserve their cultural heritage.