Lakhey is a traditional dance form that is widely performed by the Newar community of Nepal. The dance is usually performed during the Indra Jatra festival, which is celebrated to honor the Hindu king of heaven, Indra. Lakhey is a dance of a demon who is believed to protect the community from evil and diseases. The dance is also considered to be a symbol of the victory of good over evil.
The Lakhey dance is performed by a group of dancers who are dressed in colorful costumes and masks. The dance is usually accompanied by traditional music and drums. The dancers move in a synchronized manner, performing various steps and gestures that are meant to depict the demon’s movements. The dance is also accompanied by various rituals and offerings that are meant to appease the demon and seek his blessings.
The Lakhey dance is an important part of the cultural heritage of Nepal and is widely celebrated by the Newar community. The dance is not only a form of entertainment but also a way of preserving the cultural traditions of the community. The dance has been passed down from generation to generation and continues to be an important part of the community’s identity.
Origins of Lakhey
Mythological Roots
Lakhey is a demon in Newari folklore, believed to be a carnivorous demon who occupies the woods. It is said that Lakhey had a covenant with the cities’ early settlers who ensured its domain and even allowed it access to the cities in return for the security of the inhabitants. The demon is said to have originated from the mythical kingdom of Majipa, which was ruled by a demon king named Rato Machhindranath.
According to the legend, Rato Machhindranath, also known as Bungadya, was a powerful demon who had the ability to control rain and drought. He was worshipped by the people of Majipa, who believed that he was responsible for the prosperity of their kingdom. However, the demon king was cursed by a sage, which turned him into a snake. The curse was lifted only after the king promised to become a protector of the people.
Cultural Significance
Lakhey is an important cultural symbol in the Newari community, and is often depicted in various forms of art and literature. The demon is also an integral part of the traditional dance form of the Newari people, known as Lakhey Dance. The dance is performed during various festivals and occasions, and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the community.
The Lakhey Dance is performed by a group of dancers, who wear elaborate costumes and masks to depict the demon. The dance is accompanied by traditional music and drum beats, and is a visual spectacle to behold. The dance is also a way of preserving the cultural heritage of the Newari people, and is an important part of their identity.
Lakhey in Nepalese Festivals
Lakhey is an important figure in Nepalese culture, and is often featured in various festivals throughout the country. Here are some of the most notable celebrations where Lakhey is prominently featured:
Indra Jatra
Indra Jatra is a festival celebrated in Kathmandu, Nepal, to honor the Hindu god Indra, the king of heaven and the god of rain. During the festival, a masked Lakhey figure is paraded through the streets of Kathmandu, accompanied by musicians and dancers. The Lakhey is believed to have the power to drive away evil spirits and bring good luck to the people.
Other Celebrations
Aside from Indra Jatra, Lakhey is also featured in other Nepalese festivals, such as the Bisket Jatra in Bhaktapur and the Seto Machhendranath Jatra in Kathmandu. In these festivals, the Lakhey figure is often accompanied by other masked characters, such as the Bhairab and the Kumari.
The Lakhey figure is usually portrayed as a demon with a fierce expression, sharp teeth, and a wild mane. The figure is often dressed in colorful traditional clothing and carries a wooden club. The Lakhey dance is a popular attraction during these festivals, and is performed by skilled dancers who wear the Lakhey mask and costume.
Overall, Lakhey is an important figure in Nepalese culture, and plays a significant role in many festivals throughout the country. The Lakhey dance is a unique and exciting cultural experience that visitors to Nepal should not miss.
Iconography of Lakhey
Physical Description
Lakhey is a demon in Newari folklore, who is known for his fierce appearance and terrifying demeanor. He is often depicted as a muscular, red-skinned creature with a large head and sharp, pointed teeth. His eyes are wide and menacing, with a fierce expression that strikes fear in the hearts of those who see him. Lakhey’s body is covered in fur, and he has long, sharp claws that he uses to tear apart his enemies.
Costumes and Masks
Lakhey is often portrayed in traditional Nepali dance performances, where he wears a colorful costume and a large, elaborate mask. The mask is made of wood or papier-mache and is painted in bright colors, with intricate designs and patterns. The mask features large, bulging eyes, sharp teeth, and a wild, unkempt mane of hair.
The costume worn by Lakhey is equally impressive, with bright colors and intricate designs. The costume is often embellished with beads, sequins, and other decorative elements, and is designed to be both eye-catching and intimidating. The costume usually features a long, flowing skirt, a tight-fitting bodice, and a large, billowing cape that adds to the demon’s imposing presence.
Overall, the iconography of Lakhey is a fascinating blend of mythology, art, and culture, and continues to captivate audiences around the world.
Lakhey Dance
Lakhey Dance is a popular folk dance of Nepal. It is mainly performed by the Newar community during festivals. The dance is characterized by wild movements and thumping music. The performers wear a Lakhe costume and mask during the dance.
Dance Characteristics
The Lakhey Dance is known for its energetic and lively movements. The performers wear a colorful costume and a mask made of papier-mâché. The mask is designed to depict a demon-like creature with big eyes, saw-like teeth, and protruding fangs. The performers move in a wild and gyrating manner, and the dance is often accompanied by acrobatics.
Music and Instruments
The Lakhey Dance is accompanied by traditional music played on various instruments. The most common instruments used are the dhol (a double-headed drum), the cymbals, and the flute. The music is fast-paced and rhythmic, and it complements the energetic movements of the performers.
Overall, the Lakhey Dance is a vibrant and colorful expression of Nepali culture. The dance is an important part of festivals and celebrations, and it continues to be popular among the Nepali community.
Lakhey as a Cultural Symbol
Lakhey, a demon in Newari folklore, is a cultural symbol of Nepal. The demon is often defined as “the deity among the demons.” Lakhey is believed to be a carnivorous demon who occupies the woods, and is said to have had a covenant with the cities’ early settlers who ensured its domain and even allowed it access to the cities in return for the security of the inhabitants.
Representation in Arts
Lakhey’s representation in arts is an integral part of Newari culture. The demon is often depicted in traditional Newari masks, which are used in various festivals and ceremonies. The masks are made of wood and are adorned with intricate designs and colors. The masks are believed to possess spiritual power and are used to invoke the demon’s presence during festivals.
Modern Influence
Lakhey’s influence can be seen in modern Nepali culture as well. The demon has been featured in various movies, TV shows, and video games. For example, the demon is a playable character in the popular Nepali video game “Gorkha Warriors.” The demon’s representation in modern media has helped to keep the demon alive in the minds of the Nepali people.
Overall, Lakhey is an important cultural symbol of Nepal. The demon’s representation in arts and modern media has helped to keep the demon alive in the minds of the Nepali people.