Nilbarahi Dyo Pyakhan / निलबाराही द्यो प्याखँ …/ Nilbarahi Naach
Following the Sa: Paru (Gai Jatra) Festival, Bode, a historic town in Madhyapur Thimi, Bhaktapur, Nepal, hosts the traditional dance known as Nil Barahi Gana Naach for Four (4) nights and Three (3) days. This dance is a significant cultural occasion that showcases the rich history of Bode’s Newa community.
Nil Barahi, a manifestation of the Hindu guardian deity, is honored by the dance. Masks and costumes depicting different gods and mythological figures, such as Bhairav, Barahi, Simha, Kumari, Dwarpal, and Ganesh, are worn by the performers, who are a group of males. Every step in the highly ceremonial dance has a symbolic meaning connected to the tales and stories surrounding Nil Barahi.
The dance is accompanied by traditional Newari Musical Instruments such as the Dhime and various percussion instruments. The dancers’ tempo is set by the rhythmic music. An essential component of the Bode people’s cultural identity is the dance. With the active participation of the local community in its preparation and performance, it is conserved and transmitted across generations.
The Newa people in Bode have strong spiritual and cultural roots, which are reflected in the Nil Barahi Gana Naach, a living tradition. This festival, which combines artistic performance with religious devotion, is a singular manifestation of the cultural heritage. Every year, individuals who participate in this dance—whether as musicians or dancers—must perform until the day they die.
No, as long as the current performer’s lungs continue to function, no replacements are allowed to take over. During this Gana Naach, they must adhere to a number of highly stringent norms and procedures. One of the fundamental rules they must adhere to is going for a full day without eating or drinking any water. The town’s peace and prosperity depend on the show continuing without interruption, regardless of whether it rains or the sky is blazing hot.
