By Nisha Rai,Dharan, Jan. 24: Women in Dharan are stepping up to preserve the traditional Panche Baja (a set of five traditional Nepali musical instruments), which is on the verge of extinction.
In recent times, women’s groups have been seen playing Panche Baja at weddings, Bratabandh (sacred thread-wearing ceremony), festivals and public events.
Worried by the increasing threat to Nepali traditions due to modern musical instruments, a group of women in Dharan formed the Progressive Naumati Baja and Panche Baja Women’s Group three years ago.
The group’s president, Lila Dhakal, stated that they are committed to preserving the traditional instruments.
Inspired by women in western Sindhuli who play Panche Baja to preserve the tradition, Dhakal and her group undertook training to learn and play these instruments.
She mentioned that the group currently consists of 10 members.
While Naumati Baja, an ancient musical ensemble, was primarily used in wedding ceremonies, it is now being played by women in various events, including weddings, rice feeding ceremonies, festivals and public programmes.
The ensemble comprises instruments such as the Temko, Damaha, Sahanai, Narsingha and Jhyamta.
The increasing use of modern band instruments in wedding ceremonies has led to the gradual displacement of traditional musical ensembles.
Considering the decrease in use of traditional instruments, women have taken the initiative to preserve and promote these instruments.
“Our efforts will not only promote Nepal’s traditions and culture but also help revive and preserve Panche Baja,” said Dhakal.
Traditionally played only by the Dalit community, these instruments are now being played by women from all castes.
She emphasised that protecting this Nepali heritage is everyone’s responsibility.
As western culture continues to penetrate into Nepal, many traditional instruments are on the brink of extinction.
Women in Dharan and across Nepal have started preservation initiatives to protect these unique instruments.
Challenging the conventional notion that only men can play these instruments, women in Dharna are now actively involved in playing Naumati Baja.