The Cultural Tapestry of Tanahun: Traditional Festivals That Define Our Heritage

 Tanahun, the holy land of sage Ved Vyas and a melting pot of various ethnicities, is not just a district on the map of Nepal; it is a living museum of traditions. From the serene banks of the Seti and Madi rivers to the hilltop settlements of Bandipur, the air here is often filled with the sound of drums, hymns, and the rhythmic steps of folk dances.

For those of us who call Tanahun home, festivals are more than just holidays. They are the threads that weave our diverse communities—Magar, Gurung, Newar, Brahmin, Chhetri, and others—into a single, harmonious social fabric.

Historical Roots and Spiritual Beginnings

The cultural history of Tanahun is deeply rooted in ancient mythology. Damauli, the district headquarters in Vyas Municipality, is revered as the birthplace of Maharishi Ved Vyas, the author of the four Vedas.

Historically, the district was a collection of principalities under the Sen dynasty. The "Kots" (forts) and "Gadhis" found in places like Anbukhaireni and Rishing still witness the traditional power-worshiping rituals established centuries ago, particularly during the Dashain festivals.

The Spiritual Confluence at Devghat Dham

Located at the junction of Tanahun, Chitwan, and Nawalpur, Devghat Dham hosts the district’s most significant religious gathering: the Maghe Sankranti Mela.

Every January, thousands of devotees from across the country gather at the "Beni" (confluence) of the Kaligandaki and Trishuli rivers. Taking a holy dip here is believed to wash away sins and bring salvation. This festival has transformed the Anbukhaireni and Devghat regions into a hub for religious tourism.

The Mystique of Bandipur’s Khadga Jatra

In the historic town of Bandipur, the Newar community preserves a unique tradition known as Khadga Jatra. Celebrated on the day of Bijaya Dashami, this festival centers around a sacred sword (Khadga) believed to be a symbol of Goddess Durga.

The procession through the cobblestone streets of Bandipur is a sight to behold. Along with this, the town comes alive during Gai Jatra, Ropain Jatra, and the energetic Lakhey dances, making it a cultural crown jewel of Tanahun.

Damauli’s Thulo Ekadashi: A Confluence of Devotion

Haribodhini Ekadashi, locally known as Thulo Ekadashi, is celebrated with immense fervor at the confluence of the Seti and Madi rivers in Damauli. People from every corner of the district, including Shuklagandaki and Myagde, travel to the riverbanks carrying "Torans" (flower garlands).

The tradition of staying awake all night, singing hymns (Bhajans), and hanging the Toran across the river creates a spiritual atmosphere that is unique to the Vyas region.

Ethnic Rhythms: Kaura and Ghatu in Rishing and Ghiring

The hills of Rishing and Ghiring resonate with the sounds of the Khainjadi (tambourine) during the performance of Kaura and Ghatu dances. Predominantly celebrated by the Magar and Gurung communities:

Community Life and Modern Challenges

In Tanahun, festivals are synonymous with local delicacies. Whether it is the Anadi rice of the lowlands, the Batuk (lentil donuts) of the Magars, or the Selroti made in every household, food plays a central role in social bonding.

However, the modern era brings challenges. With the youth migrating to cities or abroad for employment, some of our traditional practices face the risk of fading. The decline in traditional Panche Baaja groups and the dwindling number of Ghatu dancers are concerns for cultural researchers.

The Role of Local Youth and Women's Groups

Despite these challenges, there is hope. The Aama Samuha (Mother Groups) and local youth clubs in Bhimad and Anbukhaireni have taken the lead in preserving these traditions. By organizing cultural competitions and including traditional performances in local fairs (Mahotsavs), they are ensuring that our identity remains intact for the next generation.

Conclusion

The traditional festivals of Tanahun are the heartbeat of our district. They are not merely rituals but a celebration of our history, our geography, and our unity. From the sacred dips at Devghat to the rhythmic pulses of the Kaura in the hills, these traditions continue to place Tanahun on the global map of cultural tourism.