Bhailo: A symbol of Khas civilisation celebrated in Jumla

By Netra Shahi,Jumla, Jan. 5: The traditional ‘Bhailo’ of Jumla, a symbol of Khas civilization and its authentic culture, is being performed in the Jumla.

 The traditional ‘Bhailo’ of Khas culture, passed down through generations, is currently in full swing. 

Thuli Bhailo, which began in Jumla on Poush 15 (December 30), is now being performed in various villages across the region.

 Both women and men participate in this traditional activity.

‘Bhailo’ is now performed not only in villages but also in government offices. 

The tradition of Thuli Bhailo played from the Ausi (New Moon) or Pratipada (the first day of the lunar month) days of Poush, has become a topic of conversation.

Songs like ‘Ae Aunsi Bar Bhailo’, ‘Dar Budhabar Bhailo’ and other verses are an essential part of the tradition, said locals.

Pahal Man Kunwar, a resident of ward-1 in Tatopani Rural Municipality, said that this year, too, the traditional ‘Bhailo’ is being performed.

According to him, teams of both village elderlies and youth have been playing ‘Bhailo’, a unique cultural game. It has been observed that ‘Bhailo’ is also played in Karnali, with participants dressed in different costumes depending on the region.

Women and the elderly sing local songs, chant ‘Bhailo’ and visit the courtyards of relative's homes to collect ‘Bhailo’ offerings.

 According to Gauri Nanda Acharya, the head of the District Coordination Committee, ‘Bhailo’ is now also being performed in government offices.

He further added that, according to tradition, ‘Bhailo’ is played among friends, and after collecting rice, lentils, and cash, it is customary to prepare and enjoy ‘Patebhaat’ (a feast eaten in the forest). 

The tradition also involves wearing traditional Khas attire while playing ‘Bhailo’. 

Historian Ramananda Acharya said that the winter ‘Bhailo’ tradition, said to have started during the reign of King Baliraja of Jumla in the 12th century and should be preserved to promote the region’s unique culture.

 Up until a decade ago, ‘Bhailo’, played during the winter months, was considered a significant local festival. Now, there is a renewed interest in this practice, where men and women play ‘Bhailo’ separately as per Khas tradition.

Experts said that the winter season was chosen for ‘Bhailo’, with ‘Sani Bhailo’ concluding on Mangsir Purnima and ‘Thuli Bhailo’ beginning from Poush Aunsi or Krishna Pratipada. 

Although it is a form of entertainment, Bhailo’ holds cultural importance, providing a sense of community and combating the solitude of winter months.

According to historian Ramananda Acharya, Bhailo’ originated during the era of kings and nobles as a form of entertainment.