Mothers play Panche Baja against gender issue

By Our Correspondent,Syangja, Dec. 12: Mothers' group (Aama Samuha) in Syangja played the Panche Baja (Nepali traditional musical instruments) with great enthusiasm. 

As part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a district-level competition was held in Bhirkot Municipality, where women showcased their musical skills. 

The event saw the participation of both professional women musicians and those who are still learning to play the traditional instruments. Under the slogan ‘Let’s use technology wisely, let’s end gender-based violence’, the Integrated Development Office Syangja, in coordination with Bhirkot Municipality, organised the Panche Baja competition among mothers.

The participating women’s groups delivered messages against violence through the rhythm of the Panche Baja, while also emphasising the importance of preserving cultural heritage.

In the competition, the Ekubar Magar Panche Baja Group from Bhirkot-6 secured first place. 

Likewise, the Ramchadevi Entrepreneurial Women’s Group from Phedikhola won second place, the Matribhumi Mothers’ Group from Putalibazar came third, and the Birgha Women’s Panche Baja Group from Kaligandaki received the consolation prize, according to Jiwan Poudel, head of the Integrated Development Office.

 The winners received cash prizes of Rs 12,000, Rs 8,000, Rs 6,000, and Rs 4,000, respectively. Addressing the event, Bhirkot Municipality Mayor Govinda Kumar Karmacharya said that violence disrupts society and urged everyone to stay vigilant. 

Deputy Mayor Bhagwati Regmi Aryal said that a judicial committee exists within the municipality to protect women’s rights and stressed the need for women to unite against any form of violence, whether in the family, society, or workplace.

Various women’s musical groups from across the district participated in the competition. 

Chief Poudel further informed that, under the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the Integrated Development Office Syangja has been conducting various programmes in all 11 local units of the district.