Written by: Gauri Shreya Shahi - 23055, Grade XII
Posted on: 29 April, 2022
Lakhey is a demon’s dance in the God’s carnival. Durbar Square, a historic plaza in Kathmandu, Nepal, facing old palaces and decorated by Hindu temples, is often packed with joyful crowds on the last day of Indra Jatra, the festival commemorating Indra, the Hindu monarch of heaven.
Temples are always filled on the last day of Indra Jatra, the Hindu festival celebrating Indra, the Hindu monarch of heaven. In this hallowed theater, Lakhe the demon dances forcefully and carelessly among gods and deities. He possesses a ferocious demeanor, sharp fangs, and a mane of red or black hair. In Nepal Mandala's traditional Newar culture, Lakhes play a very important role.
The Lakhe tradition can be found throughout Nepal, particularly in Kathmandu Valley and adjacent Newar towns. The Lakhes are thought to be demons who used to live in the woodlands before becoming defenders of the inhabitants. Lasin is the name for a female Lakhe.
The Khyah, who is described as a fat, hairy ape-like creature in Nepalese folklore, is another typical legendary being.
The most famous Lakhe is the Majipa Lakhey of Kathmandu. He appears during the Indra Jatra and is also worshiped as a deity. People send him food and ceremonial artifacts as he wanders throughout the city with his musical band performing dance acts.
He performs at important crossroads and market squares. A small youngster named Jhyalincha teases Lakhe during the dance, leading the Lakhe to become upset and chase him and if the Jhyalincha is caught by the Lakhey, he has to pay a small amount of money to escape.
