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Since Nepal is diverse in culture and traditions, there are various cultural dances, and each has its own uniqueness compared to the others. Each community and each ethnic group has a different way of showing their history and culture through dance. Here are some of the top cultural dances from the various ethnic groups you must see being performed and experienced, and they must be on your bucket list for Nepal.
Newari Lakhey Dance
The Lakhey Dance is a traditional mask dance that is primarily performed in the Kathmandu Valley by the Newar community. In the dance, a performer with a terrifying mask mimics the Lakhey, a demon thought to guard children. One of the highlights of the Indra Jatra festival, which is widely celebrated in Kathmandu, is this dance. The Lakhey’s colorful outfit and erratic motions make this dance an amazing show.
Where to see:
You can experience this cultural dance on the special occasion of Indra Jatra.
Tharu Stick Dance (Jhijhiya and Maghauta)
The Tharu community, residing mainly in the Terai region, is known for its energetic stick dances, such as Jhijhiya and Maghauta. Typically, these dances are done at festivals like Dashain and throughout the harvest season. Using sticks, the performers produce rhythmic rhythms that celebrate agricultural wealth and represent the battle against evil spirits.
Where to see:
You can experience this cultural dance while you are on a tour to Chitwan or Bardiya.
Tamang Selo Dance
The Tamang community’s lively and rhythmic Tamang Selo Dance is performed to the sound of indigenous instruments like the damphu, a tiny hand drum. This dance reflects the joys and sorrows of everyday life with its fast steps and passionate moves. Tamang Selo, a colorful window into Tamang culture, is performed at several festivals and social events.
Where to see:
You can experience tamang selo performance on the special occasion of Buddha Jayanti celebrations in Tamang-majority areas such as Rasuwa and Nuwakot.
Maruni Dance
The vibrant and energetic Maruni Dance originated in Nepal’s eastern highlands, specifically in the Rai and Limbu populations. The dance, which is typically performed at festivals and weddings, comprises men costumed as women who are accompanied by musicians playing folk instruments. The Maruni Dance is renowned for its colorful costumes and entertaining stories.
Where to see:
You can experience Maruni Dance during Tihar and other local festivals in the eastern region of Nepal.
Kartik Dance
Kartik Dance is a colorful celebration of the religious devotion and rich cultural legacy of Nepal. You may discover more about Nepal’s spiritual and historical traditions as well as the creative prowess of the Newar culture by attending this traditional performance. Indulge in the magnificence of Nepali culture by seeing this enthralling dance performance if you’re visiting during the month of Kartik.
Where to see:
You can experience this dance in Patan, particularly in the vicinity of the Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Conclusion
Nepal’s rich ethnic diversity and traditions are beautifully woven together through its folk dances. Every performance, from the upbeat Tharu Stick Dance to the thoughtful Kartik Dance, tells a different tale and upholds cultural traditions. One of the most fascinating ways to fully immerse oneself in Nepal’s heritage and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse history and cultural manifestations is to witness these dances.
Also read: Unique and interesting things that we can do in Chitwan
