Centuries-old Dutiya Fair begins in Falgunanda Rural Municipality

BY RADHA LUINTEL

Phidim, Nov. 5: Dutiya Fair with a history spanning 270 years has begun at Osanghu Bazaar, located at the margin of Wards 6 and 7 of Falgunanda Rural Municipality in Panchthar district from Sunday. 

During the fair, a traditional rotating swing is placed at the location. This swing was established by the ancestors of the local Limbu community, with historical records showing that Sasor Singh Kurumbang first set up the fair in this area in 1754.

According to historian Amber Angdembe, Sasor Singh was born in 1720 and for 38 years after his marriage, he remained childless. During this difficult time, he visited the Kummaiyak Kussayak temple in Yasok to offer prayers, but the Limbu priests of the Lawati clan there restricted him from entering. In response, he established two shrines, Kummaiyak and Kussayak, in Osanghu itself. He prayed at these shrines, and in the 39th and 41st years, two sons were born to him.

After having children, Sasor Singh celebrated his joy by setting up a rotating swing in Osanghu and inviting villagers to share his happiness. The first fair, held in 1754, was initially organised twice a month (on the new moon and full moon days). About a century ago, the fair shifted to coincide with the day of Bhaitika (the fifth day of Tihar). In its early days, the fair primarily attracted the Limbu people, who gathered to perform the traditional Dhan Nach (paddy dance) and trade local products. 

The fair now runs for three days, beginning on Bhaitika. However, the swing is set up before Dashain and continues to operate through Dashain, Tihar and Chhath festivals. Once these festivals are over, the swing is pulled down and stored. Local youths have formed a committee to preserve the swing, responsible for setting it up, taking it down and conducting repairs.

The swing has four seats, accommodating up to eight people at a time, with two on each seat. However, to ensure safety, only one person per seat is allowed. 

Digam Kurumbang, who coordinates the fair, has shared that the local government funds repairs if any part of the swing, such as the polls, legs or seats, requires maintenance.

The swing is set up at the fair ground itself. A volleyball competition is also part of the fair, marking its 50th year this year. For the competition’s management, Falgunanda Rural Municipality has funded Rs. 150,000 and Wards 6 and 7 have added Rs. 65,000, totalling Rs. 215,000.