The town of Beni is buzzing with the vibrant energy of the traditional ‘Varse Naach,’ a cultural dance that has been performed since the establishment of the settlement. This time-honored dance, led by the Newar community, has been an integral part of Beni’s cultural heritage.
The Varse Naach, which began on the festival of Ghantakarna Chaturdashi, continues until the day of Haritalika Teej, spanning over a month. This year, the performance is organized by a youth group under the Nepal Bhasa Manka Khala, known as ‘Lyamh Puja,’ focusing on preserving and showcasing this cultural treasure.
Jenesh Shrestha, Chairperson of Lyamh Puja, shared that this year’s festivities include the Lakhe Naach, Horse Dance, Jog Dance, Naga-Nagini Dance, and the Shree Krishna Rath Yatra (Chariot Procession). In previous years, additional dances such as the paddy-planting dance and bull dance were included, but due to limited manpower this year, the focus has been on the most significant performances.
Shrestha emphasized the importance of training and practicing with the youth and children to pass down the skills required for these traditional dances. As the dances are performed daily in the evening, the streets of Beni are filled with locals eager to witness the spectacle. Children, young adults, and even the elderly gather along the streets to watch the performances.
The Varse Naach is not only a celebration for the Newar community but also includes participation from youths and children of various ethnicities residing in Beni. The arrival of new performers has further strengthened the preservation and continuity of this unique cultural dance, according to Sandip Shrestha, the coordinator of the Lakhe Naach.
The Naga-Nagini Dance, one of the key elements of the Varse Naach, is particularly unique to the Myagdi district and is performed during Janai Purnima to remember deceased members of the Newar community. The dance, which is over 200 years old, remains a significant cultural marker in Beni, with new artists being trained to ensure its continuity.
Young artists like Abhinesh Shrestha have expressed their dedication to preserving this tradition. He noted that in an era where modern influences threaten indigenous cultures, the responsibility of maintaining Varse Naach falls on the youth. The dance, accompanied by traditional instruments like the mridanga and madal, often depicts scenes from ancient societal life, with the Lakhe Naach symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
The Varse Naach concludes on the day of Teej with the depiction of the mythical defeat of the demon Lakhe by Lord Krishna, symbolizing the victory of truth over falsehood. This dance serves as a powerful reminder of the cultural values and heritage that have been preserved through generations in Beni.
