Myagdi: The otherwise vibrant festive atmosphere in major markets including Beni bazaar of the district has noticeably lost its bustle, with only two groups performing Deusi-Bhailo during the ongoing Tihar festival. Local residents and shopkeepers have expressed concerns about the diminishing presence of this traditional cultural dance and song, which has been a hallmark of the festivities.
According to National News Agency RSS, Kiran Karki, a local entrepreneur at Indrenichowk of Beni district, lamented the absence of the traditional charm in the market during the festival of lights and flowers. In previous years, the markets would turn into bustling places with at least 10 troupes of Deusi-Bhailo celebrants performing. However, Karki noted that this year, he only saw two groups participating.
Karki attributed the reduction in Deusi-Bhailo groups to the increasing exodus of youths, especially skilled performers, seeking foreign employment and opportunities for abroad studies. “This year, the Aama Samuha an
d higher secondary school students were seen performing Deusi-Bhailo,” he shared, expressing concern over the cultural impact of the youth outflow.
Gokul Sunar, chairperson of an organization of folk music artists, observed a decrease in the number of younger participants during Tihar. According to Sunar, many young people in the district have sought employment overseas, while others are preoccupied with agricultural work. He expressed worry that without enthusiastic participants to sustain the Deusi-Bhailo tradition, its continuity is at risk.
Skilled artists such as Raj Kumar Pariyar, Soniya Pun, Gokul Pun, and Milan Thapa Magar have also left for better opportunities, exacerbating the shortage of performers for cultural events. To counter this, Sunar mentioned that they have trained new troupes of artists to conserve the tradition and customs of Deusi-Bhailo.
Another issue raised was the erosion of cultural values and practices. Traditional musical instruments like madal, tyamko, and sahanai, once integ
ral to the performances, are being overshadowed by modernization and extravagance. However, the Myagdi diaspora abroad has managed to keep the tradition alive by organizing Deusi-Bhailo functions in countries such as Portugal, Japan, South Korea, the USA, the UK, and Australia.
Rahul KC, residing in the USA, observed that the Nepali diaspora, particularly those from Myagdi, celebrate Deusi-Bhailo with great enthusiasm. He recently attended a gathering where participants in ethnic attire performed traditional songs and dances.
Despite these efforts, the shift in perception of Deusi-Bhailo from a cultural celebration to a fundraising opportunity has been criticized. Artist Amit BC denounced the use of recorded music, which diminishes the authenticity of live performances with traditional instruments.
Community leaders and cultural experts emphasize the importance of preserving the original form and content of Deusi-Bhailo. They urge the younger generation to engage with and uphold this unique heritage, ensur
ing its survival in modern times.