Saraye Naach Cultural Dance Event Begins in Dang District

The traditional Saraye Naach festival has officially commenced in Dang district this year. Organised by the Ambikeshwari Temple Management Committee located in Ghorahi Sub-Metropolitan City-18, the event marks a new cultural showcase for the valley residents. Narayan Bhusal of Ghorahi explained that Saraye Naach serves as a key cultural attraction during the Dashain festival, traditionally celebrated to mark the joy of gods achieving victory over demons. The dance tradition, which was previously confined mostly to the hill districts, has expanded into Dang due to recent population migration. Pandav Khanal from Ghorahi Sub-Metropolitan City-15 stated that residents who moved from the hills established the performance in the Terai region to safeguard their original cultural heritage. He noted that the dance in the plains actively follows the established rituals and traditional methods historically practiced in the hill areas. Organisers highlighted that community involvement in the festival has broadened significantly. While participation in Saraye Naach was dominated mostly by men in earlier years, women have been joining the dance performances in increasing numbers during recent events. Community members expressed satisfaction over establishing the traditional dance in the district, pointing out its positive role in preserving heritage for younger generations.