Local youth bring Barkhe Naach back in Beni

By Our Correspondent,Beni, July 31: The traditional Barkhe Naach (monsoon dance), which has been performed in Beni for generations, has once again been brought to life this year through the active involvement of local youths.

 The Newar community introduced Barkhe Naach to Beni nearly 200 years ago. In recent times, the younger generation has shown increased interest in preserving this cultural tradition.

The Barkhe Naach, which includes various dance performances from Ghantakarna Chaturdashi to Haritalika Teej, adds vibrancy and excitement to the local market. Under the leadership of the youth group Lyam: Puch, which operates under Manka: Khal, the Barkhe Naach is being performed.

According to Janesh Shrestha, president of Lyam: Puch, this year’s performances began on Tuesday with the Lakhey dance. Other dances to be presented include Ghoda (horse), Goru (ox), Rice Plantation, Naga-Nagini (serpent deities), Rice Grain, and Joginach (a spiritual dance).

He said, “We are organising the Barkhe Naach with the active participation of youth to preserve, pass down, and promote the traditional and indigenous art of the Newar community. Young artists are actively involved in the performances.” 

He further added that training is being provided to new performers to ensure the continuity of this 200-year-old tradition. Around 40 performers are needed for the different dances.

Subin Shrestha, president of the Myagdi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said that the Barkhe Naach, a unique cultural and artistic expression of the Newar community, has remained vibrant due to the efforts of the youth. 

Although the Barkhe Naach has traditionally been a cultural identity of the local Newar community, Lyam: Puch president Shrestha said that youths from other communities have also started participating in the effort to continue and preserve the tradition.