DJ music replaces Tharus’ Traditional Chhokra Dance

BY SANTOSH DAHIT,Dang, Apr. 4: The Chhokra Dance, a well-known traditional dance of the Tharu community, is performed during weddings, Pathlari Bidai, a ritual of bidding farewell to the bride, and even to mark the beginning of new ventures. However, this cultural dance is now fading away. 

In the past, the entire village youth would gather at the groom’s house and start performing the Chhokra Dance even before the bride arrived, as part of the Pathlari welcome. But today, DJ music has replaced traditional dance, and celebrations remain quiet.  

According to Sabi Tharu, chairman of Khyal Bagal, it was once customary for each village to showcase its Chhokra Dance to welcome the Pathlari, but that tradition has nearly disappeared. He emphasised that the Chhokra Dance, deeply rooted in Tharu culture, has been passed down for generations but is now on the verge of extinction.  

Expressing concern over its decline, he urged the younger generation to preserve and promote the dance. He said that these days, the tradition of performing the Chhokra Dance has vanished, and to revive it, it must be incorporated into weddings and other cultural events in Tharu villages.  

Similarly, Jagbir Chaudhary of Ghorahi-15 recalled how the Chhokra Dance was once widely performed from March to May, the prime wedding season for the Tharu community. It was also customary to perform it when moving into a new home. However, he added that the practice has faded away.  

He believes the shift in youth interest toward modern dances has led to the dance’s decline. Since the Chhokra Dance reflects the identity and culture of the Tharu community, Chaudhary stressed the need for active efforts to preserve and promote it.