SATV, Kathmandu, Aug. 06 - Traditional musical instruments that once echoed through Tharu festivals and cultural dances are gradually disappearing. 

Different instruments were traditionally played for different dances, and this practice was regarded as an important part of Tharu culture. 

However, due to the shortage of instrument makers, the younger generation’s declining interest, and a lack of conservation efforts, these unique instruments are now on the verge of disappearing.

Surmani Chaudhary of Hekuli, Dangisharan Rural Municipality-3, recalled carrying the traditional Jhali and Kastar instruments during festivals and cultural programmes. She no longer uses them because the instruments made by her ancestors have become worn out.

“After the instruments were damaged, we could not replace them. They are not available in the market, and there is no one to make them,” she said. “In the past, every dance group carried these traditional instruments.”

Mohan Chaudhary of the same village was once well known for playing Chhatkhauli, Dap and Pilaru. However, he has stopped playing because those instruments have almost disappeared.

“I am getting old, and I no longer have the energy to make new instruments,” he said. “Young people today are not interested in learning or playing these traditional instruments.”

According to him, almost every village once used traditional musical instruments during festivals and cultural performances. Today, except for the Madal, it has become difficult to find other traditional instruments in many villages.

According to Anglal Chaudhary of Dadachis, Dangisharan Rural Municipality-5, traditional Tharu dances such as Chhokra and Hurdugya were performed with instruments including Jhali, Kastar, Basya, Chhatkhauli and Pilaru.

“These instruments are an important part of the Tharu community's cultural identity, but as their use continues to decline, they are disappearing one by one,” said Chaudhary. 

He said the main traditional instruments of the Tharu community include the Madal, Dhawal, Manjaura, Jhali, Kastar, Basya, Chhatkhauli, Pilaru and Dap. Different instruments were played depending on the type of festival, song and dance.

Local elders said that as these traditional instruments disappear, the Tharu community’s musical heritage and cultural identity are also under threat.

They stress the need to preserve instrument-making skills, provide training to the younger generation, and encourage the compulsory use of traditional instruments at cultural programmes.

Tharu community leaders said immediate action is needed to preserve these instruments and pass the tradition on to future generations.