Lakhey Dance
Lakhey Dance is a traditional Newari dance. In this dance, people wear mask and costumes and dance in rhythm. This folk dance is performed during festivals and rituals, and it is believed that it brings good fortune and keeps people safe from evils. It brings positive vibration in the environment and thoughts of humans.
The Dance
The dance carries dramatic storytelling and is characterized by wild movements and thumping music. This dance depicts local legends and mythological stories. A Lakhe dance performer puts on a mask before going out to perform.
The Lakhey Mask
The Lakhey Mask is made up of paper craft and hair is made up of yak tails. It is believed that the mask gives strength to the performer during dance and the mask symbolizes fear, greed, anxiety, and excitement.
The Lakhey
Lakhey is the protector of children in Newari folklore. Lakhey is a powerful and fearsome demon in the Newar community. Lakhey is considered as the symbol of both terror and protection. Lakhey is the dance of a demon in the carnival of God. You can see crowds full of people watching the Lakhey dance in Indra Jatra conducted in Kathmandu Valley, in the month of September every year.
The Lakhey dance is believed to protect people from diseases and bless them. It is believed to end epidemics.
Festival and Tradition
The festival is believed to have originated from the Newar Community's New Year, known as "Nepal Sambat", which falls in October/November.
Due to modernization, lifestyles are changing and younger generations are unaware of this tradition.
Conclusion
Lakhey Dance is more than just a performance; it is a cultural heritage that reflects the beliefs, traditions, and creativity of the Newar community. Despite modern influences, preserving this traditional dance is important to maintain the cultural identity and pass on the rich folklore to future generations.
