Prof. Dr. Shyam Joshi

The Lakhe (demon) dance performed in the ancient town of Dolakha is locally known as “Dakas.” This dance is one of the significant cultural heritages of Dolakha, a culturally prosperous kingdom during the medieval period. While Lakhe dances are performed in various Newar settlements across Nepal, Dolakha’s version has its own unique identity and originality. This dance begins from the festival of Ghantakarna and is showcased on the eve of Hille Jatra. In Dolakha, there are four distinct types of Lakhe dances:

1. Jo (Jonga) Dakas (Hand-held Lakhe):
In this form, the hands of the Lakhe are held by two individuals called Khwali (also known as Daure). These individuals may be ordinary people or masked performers dressed in special costumes. Typically, the dance starts around 3 PM and ends around 5 PM. It begins the day after Ghantakarna and reaches its peak, concluding on the day of Trayodashi (the thirteenth day of the lunar fortnight).

2. Nepal Dakas:
This Lakhe is traditionally performed at night in Dolakha, unlike in other regions of Nepal where it is usually performed during the day in Newar communities. Similar to the Jo (Jonga) Dakas, it starts from the day after Ghantakarna and concludes on Trayodashi. Additionally, this dance is also performed during the Indra Jatra festival in Dolakha.

3. Majipa Dakas:
In Dolakha, this Lakhe is performed during Gai Jatra and Indra Jatra. However, in Kathmandu, it is performed only on the final day of Indra Jatra. The story of the origin of this dance differs between Dolakha and Kathmandu. Hence, it is pronounced “Majipa” in Kathmandu and “Maajipa” in Dolakha. This Lakhe is believed to have originated from a kingdom of fishermen, which is reflected in the costume and the dance style.

4. Dwaku Dakas (Large Lakhe):
This form of Lakhe dance is performed only on the day of Janai Purnima (Sacred Thread Festival) in Dolakha. Its dance style and costume resemble those of Jo (Jonga) Dakas, but it features a distinctive mask. Every year, the dance originates from the same house in Dolakha, although the residents of the lower and upper neighborhoods (Toles) take turns performing the Lakhe. This Dakas is not performed on any other day throughout the year.