Students preserve indigenous culture through traditional ‘Deusi-Bhailo’

BAGLUNG: In an effort to preserve their cultural heritage, Magar students in Baglung have come together to promote traditional songs and dances during the Tihar festival.

Concerned by the growing influence of Hindi, English, and rap music in ‘Deusi-Bhailo’ performances, the students are reviving original forms of celebration that reflect the rich traditions of their community. They have chosen to perform only indigenous dances such as Maruni, Sorathi, and Kaura, which have been popular in Baglung for generations.

While many groups performing Deusi-Bhailo in Baglung Bazaar now include modern music and flashy performances, the Magar students are taking a different approach. Dressed in traditional attire, their performances have drawn the attention and admiration of locals — from children to the elderly — who have been gathering to watch and support the cultural revival.

The initiative is being led by the Nepal Magar Students’ Union, District Working Committee, which launched a culturally rooted Deusi program this Tihar.

“We are working to preserve and pass on the cultural dances and songs our ancestors used to perform during Tihar,” said Krishna Athare Magar, President of the District Committee. “Western influence is growing, but we believe our original culture must not be forgotten.”

Athare emphasized that the performances are based on oral traditions passed down through generations. With support from community elders, the students have been trained in performing authentic songs and dances that are now at risk of disappearing.

Pradeep Thapa Magar, Secretary of the Students’ Union, has been learning Sorathi and Maruni dances from local elders like Tikaram Thapa and Padam Shree for the past four years. This year, he trained fellow students to perform these traditional dances during Deusi-Bhailo.

“Sorathi and Maruni are cultural identities of the Magar community. By learning and teaching them, we are ensuring that these traditions don’t vanish,” Thapa said.

The Magar Students’ Union plans to use the donations collected during Deusi-Bhailo to organize a cultural evening, aimed at further promoting indigenous language, art, and heritage. The Union has long been active in preserving the cultural roots of the Magar community through various initiatives.