Sarai dance tradition thrives in Gulmi, carried to the Tarai by migration

Gulmi has a tradition of performing the Sarai dance at various forts, shrines and temples from the eleventh day of Bada Dashain through Kojagrat Purnima. After worshipping the goddess, participants dance like a martial art to the beat of traditional instruments, carrying khukuris, swords, khundas, spears and other blades.

This year, the dance was performed in traditional style at the historic site of Jogithum in Musikot on Kojagrat Purnima. The Sarai dance is also held at Durbarkot in Dhurkot, Taltung in Isma, and at Arjai, Chhap and Ghamir in Malika.

Tied to religious faith and historical heritage, the dance has become a distinct cultural identity of Gulmi. Those who migrated from the hills have carried this tradition all the way to the Tarai.

A community that migrated to Lamahi in Dang has been performing the Sarai dance alongside worship of goddess Bhagwati for about 18 years. The dance, in which people of all ages take part, has helped pass the tradition on to the new generation.

According to Keshav Raj Pokharel, who came from Pyuthan, Sarai dance and Khadga Jatra used to be held at the Bhagwati temple and forts in his birthplace. He said that tradition, which faded after people migrated, now continues uninterrupted in Lamahi. Sita Paudel of Gadhawa said she was happy to watch the Sarai dance in Lamahi after many years.