Foreign tourists visiting Myagdi’s scenic spots have been captivated by the local Deusi-Bhailo festivities held during the Tihar festival. Many tourists exploring the Annapurna Circuit joined local groups, including mothers’ groups, schools, and youth clubs, in the vibrant cultural celebrations of singing and dancing. Some even took part in the traditional Bhai Tika ceremony.
According to Mina Pun, chairperson of the Hotel Management Subcommittee of Annapurna Rural Municipality-6, Ghorepani, tourists enthusiastically participated in the Deusi-Bhailo celebrations organized by the Poonhill Mothers’ Group. “Tourists who came to enjoy nature have also had the chance to experience Tihar’s cultural events,” she remarked, adding that tourists not only sang and danced but also played the traditional madal drum as part of the Deusi-Bhailo festivities. These celebrations extended beyond Ghorepani to other areas like Shikha, Ghara, Bhurung-Tatopani, Dana, and Narchyang, where trekkers also joined in.
Ghorepani is a central stop for tourists visiting the Annapurna Circuit, which covers Myagdi’s popular trekking areas such as Dana-Narchyang, Bhurung-Tatopani, Ghara, Shikha, Ulleri, Ghandruk, and Nayapul. Poonhill Mothers’ Group Chairperson Tara Pun explained that the Deusi-Bhailo program aims to introduce tourists to local culture, preserve traditions, pass them to the next generation, and raise funds for the community.
The Poonhill Mothers’ Group also operates a Magar museum in Ghorepani, where local artists, dressed in traditional Magar attire, perform traditional songs, Deusi-Bhailo chants, and dance routines. They entertain audiences by narrating ancient tales and folklore through songs and humorous dialogues. Tara Pun shared that visitors enjoy listening to these performances, which often describe the history and stories of local households, blessing them with good fortune.
These celebrations reflect the spirit of Tihar and offer tourists an enriching cultural experience, further enhancing the unique appeal of the Annapurna Circuit.
Source: RSS
