Mothers' groups from villages to cities gathered to tell stories of their rights, pain, and possibilities, accompanied by the sounds of panchebaja.
On the final day of the 16-day campaign against gender-based violence, Syangja resonated with a powerful blend of music, culture, and women's rights. Mothers' groups from villages to cities gathered to tell stories of their rights, pain, and possibilities, accompanied by the sounds of panchebazaar.
The participating mothers' groups in the Panchebaja competition organized by the Integrated Services Office Syangja not only conveyed a message against violence to the rhythm of the Panchebaja, but also presented a commitment to preserve the original beat of the culture. Along with the rhythm of the Panchebaja, the women expressed their own lives' pain, struggle, and courage in songs, leaving everyone spellbound. Mothers' groups from different parts of the district participated in the competition. Ekubar Mothers' Group, Bhirkot Municipality won the first place. Ramchedevi Udymasheel Women's Group, Phedikhol won the second place, while the third and consolation places were won by Matrubhumi Mothers' Group (Putalibaja) and Birgha Women's Panchebaja Group (Kaligandaki), respectively. The winning groups were awarded certificates along with cash prizes of Rs 12,000, Rs 8,000, Rs 6,000, and Rs 4,000, respectively. In addition, women who played the Sanai and Dholak were separately honored, informed Jeevan Poudel, head of the Integrated Services Office.
‘This competition has given a clear message about how powerful musical skills are among women,’ he said. Earlier, a similar panchebaja competition was also organized among children.
Triangle of rights, culture and confidence
Addressing the program, Mayor of Bhirkot Municipality Govinda Kumar Karmacharya praised the panchebaja Madal and Sanai for presenting not only culture but also the ability and confidence of women. Former Mayor Chhayaram Khanal emphasized that gender-based violence should not be tolerated under any circumstances and must be resisted. Deputy Mayor Bhagwati Regmi Aryal said that the panchebaja competition will play an important role in preserving culture and developing women’s skills.
Head of the Integrated Services Office Jeevan Poudel expressed his belief that such activities will provide great inspiration to promote the identity, skills and income of the traditional instrument playing community. National artists also participated in the program.
The participating women shared their experiences of using the skills they learned in panchebaja to earn income and the confidence they gained from the program to speak openly about violence. A large number of women participated in the program.
