Saraiya dance and wooden swings bring festivity to Dang and Gulmi

The Saraiya dance, traditionally performed during Dashain in the hill districts, has been introduced in Dang for the first time this year, while wooden swings have become a growing attraction at Gulmi's Saraiya fairs.

The Ambikeshwari Temple Management Committee in Ghorahi Sub-Metropolitan City-18 has launched the Saraiya dance festival. The dance, performed collectively with swords, khukuris and other weapons to the beat of panche baja, was introduced in Dang after the art form began facing the risk of disappearing.

Ashish Panthi, who moved from Madane, Gulmi, to Ghorahi, said the dance can only be preserved if it continues every year. In Gulmi's local units including Isma, Malika, Dhurkot, Madane, Musikot and Chhatrakot, wooden swings are set up at venues and fairs where the Saraiya dance is held. In some places, the same group carries swing equipment from one fair to another to operate them in turn.

Swinging during Dashain follows the traditional belief that one must leave the ground at least once a year. People of all ages, from children to the elderly, enjoy playing on the swings.