SATV, Kathmandu, Sept. 02 - A traditional Limbu Dhan Naach, known as Yalang, was organised in Taplejung on the occasion of the Lakhe festival and Ropain Jatra.

The event was organised by the Taplejung district branch of Yakthung Chumlung Nepal to promote the Limbu community’s indigenous culture. The programme was held at Phungling Bazaar, the district headquarters.

Koshi Provincial Assembly members and former ministers Khagen Singh Hangam and Nirmala Tawa Limbu, along with former Koshi Province minister Bal Bahadur Samsohang, were among the representatives who attended the programme. Chief District Officer Umesh Kumar Dahal, heads of various government offices, young people from the Limbu community and other local residents also took part in Dhan Naach.

According to Hangmaya Lechharbo Limbu, the district chairperson of Chumlung, everyone attending the programme participated in the traditional rice dance. The Dhan Naach is an important part of Limbu culture and is particularly popular among communities in eastern Nepal.

Dancers hold each other’s hands and dance in circles or long lines while singing Palam, traditional songs performed in a question-and-answer or duet style in the Limbu language.

The dance is traditionally performed during weddings and other occasions involving happiness and sorrow. People of different ages, from young people to older members of the community, take part in the dance.

It is also performed at fairs, markets, festivals and other special occasions. Yakthung Chumlung Taplejung said the programme was organised as part of the Ropai Jatra celebrations during the Lakhe festival.

It is believed that presenting and celebrating traditional cultures during ethnic festivals, while encouraging wider public participation, will help preserve Nepal’s unique indigenous traditions and cultural heritage.