LALITPUR, Oct 28: President Bidya Devi Bhandari has said the Dapha (musical instrument), which constitutes the Newar community culture, is the cultural identity of the nation itself. She termed the Dapha as the country's pride and prestige.
The President said this while inaugurating the Nepal Mandala Dapha Festival-2073 BS at the Lalitpur Mall here today.
Stating that the Dapha which is one of the musical instruments that form a part of the Newar culture has maintained its uniqueness and become a part of the national pride, she stressed the need of its promotion and preservation as it is being overshadowed by the modern instruments.
The Head of State called for the reconstruction of the temples and shrines associated with the Dapha culture that were damaged by the devastating earthquake last year.
President of the Festival Steering Committee, Dr Satya Mohan Joshi, said the event has been held with the objective of preserving and promoting the art and culture of the Newar community. He believed that the Festival will contribute to the protection and promotion of the Dapha culture and to sensitize the youths about its significance.
Culture expert Joshi said that the Dapha is not only the property of the Newar community but the identity of the whole nation.
It is chronicled in history that this type of musical instrument has been in practice since two thousand years.
The Newar communities from various parts of the country including the Kathmandu Valley are participating in the Festival. Various traditional dances as Mukundo Naach, Lakhey Naach, Kawan Naach and Dhimey Naach are also being organized as part of the Festival.
The Nepal Mandala Television is the main organizer of the Festival. Two hundred Dapha groups from various districts are attending the Festival which will be held from 2pm to 6 pm every Friday and Saturday. RSS
Support of all essential to preserve Newari culture-President
