Vyas Municipality preserving Thado Bhaka

By Our Correspondent,Tanahun, Jan. 2: Vyas Municipality of Tanahun has taken an initiative to preserve the endangered Thado Bhaka folk song, which represents the indigenous identity of Gandaki Province.

To protect this traditional folk song, the Vyas Municipal Academy, established by the municipality, began a three-day training programme titled ‘Upliftment and Preservation of Folk Culture - Our Mission’ on Friday in Damauli.

Inaugurating the programme, Mayor of Vyas Municipality and Chancellor of the Academy, Baikuntha Neupane, said that indigenous art and culture are invaluable assets of the municipality. 

He expressed concern over the gradual disappearance of Thado Bhaka, which reflects local identity. He added that protecting such culture and passing the skills on to the younger generation is a major responsibility of the municipality.

Deputy Mayor Indira Darai said that preserving local culture would help promote tourism and strengthen the municipality’s identity. She added that while the municipality prioritises physical infrastructure development, it has also given equal importance to the promotion of language and culture through its budget and programmes.

Vice-Chancellor of the Academy and senior litterateur Kashinath Neupane said that Thado Bhaka is not just a song but a living history and a form of social expression.

The training programme, which will run until January 4, is being led by renowned Thado Bhaka singer Buddhiman Dura (Dhampu) as the chief trainer. Other trainers include Sita Dura, Akkal Birahi Gurung, and Anita Gurung.

Basnet said that the Thado Bhaka tradition spread from Lamjung to different parts of Tanahun, and the training was organised to ensure its transfer to future generations.

Organised in collaboration with the National Folk and Dohori Song Academy, Tanahun, and the Dura Sewa Samaj, the programme aims to continue the legacy preserved by Bhedikharke Sailo.