Army sets up traditional swing in Rautahat for Dashain

The Nepali Army's Shree Narayandal Gan has built a traditional linge ping (bamboo swing) at Ekta Maidan in Shanti Tole, Chandrapur Municipality-4, Rautahat, targeting the Dashain festival.

The army said the swing was built in the old style using bamboo, wood and rope. The army said the purpose is to preserve the fading traditional custom and folk culture. Until about a decade ago, it was customary for swings to be set up in towns and villages even before Dashain began, but the practice has been declining with growing modernization and technology.

After the swing was set up, residents of the neighborhood began gathering to use it. The organizers believe that when children to the elderly gather in one place, it strengthens community bonding and helps the new generation know their ancestral culture. There is a longstanding belief in Nepali society that one's feet should leave the ground at least once during Dashain.

The swing is seen as a symbol of social unity, harmony and brotherhood alongside entertainment. The swing built by the army is expected to bring festive joy to locals as well as attract domestic tourists.