Empowering women through Panche Baja

Durga Rana of Mallarani Rural Municipality-2, who typically spends her days tending to hay, firewood, and farming, now finds herself rushing to the ward office to learn and play the Panche Baja. She is one of 26 women participating in a six-day training program aimed at mastering the traditional Nepali musical ensemble.  

The training, organized by the ward office under a women’s empowerment initiative, seeks to preserve the cultural heritage of the Panche Baja while providing participants with a potential source of income. “This initiative not only helps protect our culture but also empowers women economically,” said Ward Chairman Lekh Bahadur Thapa.  

The Panche Baja, a set of traditional instruments including the damaha, jhyali, tyamko, dholki, and sahanai, is deeply rooted in Nepali art and culture. Women in Pyuthan have been earning an income by performing with these instruments, helping preserve the art form. The Matribhumi Tole Bikas Sanstha in Pyuthan Municipality-2 previously trained women to play the Panche Baja with financial support from various organizations.  

According to Tara Bahadur KC, Chairperson of the organization, the training program and the purchase of instruments were made possible through assistance from the Cottage and Small Industries Office and the ward office. There is growing demand for Panche Baja performances at weddings, fairs, pujas, and festivals, creating a viable income stream.  

The Naumati Baja, an extended version of the Panche Baja, has also gained popularity. A group of nine performers—seven women and two men—has been playing the Naumati Baja for three years. “The men play the narasimha and sahana, while the rest of the instruments are played by women,” said Chairperson KC. Their service fees range from Rs 10,000 to Rs 30,000, depending on the duration of the event.  

The group, led by coordinator Sukmaya BK, now owns two sets of Naumati Baja. Pyuthan Municipality has provided them with uniforms, which BK said has boosted their enthusiasm. The group is always ready to perform whenever called upon.  

Since July, they have also formed a bhajan (hymn) team, which participates in fairs, temple inaugurations, and various puja programs. Meanwhile, another women’s group from Jumrikada in Pyuthan Municipality-5 has also been earning by performing with the Panche Baja. Local resident Parbati Damai shared that they charge Rs 1,000 per day for their services.