Jajarjot, Jan. 30: The unique cultural identity of Jajarkot is under threat as the young generation is becoming disconnected from its roots. In a bid to preserve their cultural identity, Jajarkot Heritage Conservation Foundation on its second anniversary recently presented folk songs and dances in all seven local levels of the district. 

Janak KC, President of Jajakot Heritage Conservation Foundation, said, ” The unique art and culture of Jajarkot is fading away, so there is a need to conserve our art, artefacts, culture, tradition, folk music and dance. On the second anniversary of Jajarkot Heritage Conservation Foundation, we appeal to all the technology-friendly young generations to promote their art and culture.”

Sigaru dance of Bheri Municipality, Khando dance of Kushe Rural Municipality, Deuda of Junichande Rural Municipality, Khayali dance of Nalgada Municipality, Maruni dance of Shivalaya Rural Municipality, Dari, Lahare and Paisseri of Barekot Rural Municipality, Mayur dance of Chhedagada Municipality were performed in the programme.

Gorakh Bahadur Singh, principal of the Birendra Aishwarya Secondary School of Barekot Rural Municipality, said that the performed folk dances and songs made him nostalgic and reminded him of his duty to preserve and promote them so that the coming generation would feel proud of their unique identity.

Rajendra Bikram Shah, leader of civil society, said that the responsibility of exploring their art and culture has fallen on the shoulder of the younger generation, so, such kinds of programmes need to be organised regularly. 

Deuda song, Durbar painting, an Agriculture Fair, an industrial exhibition and a public speaking competition on the topic Reconstruction of Heritage Damaged by the Earthquake were organised in the programme. 

The local produce such as vegetables, honey, grains, fruits, handmade Nepali paper, clothes and various other handicrafts items were put on exhibition. 

Maya Prasad Sharma, a member of the National Assembly, said that the government was determined to conserve their cultural heritage, and urged artists of Jajarkot to promote their folk songs and dances in the national and international arena.