Celebrating Dashain: The Newa Cultural Significance of Malshree Dhun
Dashain, a major national festival celebrated with great fervor among the Newa community, extends over 15 days, commencing with Ghatasthapana and culminating on Kojagrat Purnima. This festival holds a special place in the hearts of the Newa people, who are known for their rich cultural traditions and vibrant celebrations. It involves the veneration of diverse incarnations of Goddess Durga, and the Newa community's unique customs and rituals add a distinctive flavor to the festivities.
The advent of Dashain is marked by the construction of grand bamboo swings, colorful kites soaring through the sky, and the melodic strains of Malshree dhun. This traditional Newa musical composition, believed to have originated in the 16th century within the Nepa Mandala, has become an integral part of Newa culture. Malshree dhun is a reflection of the Newa community's deep-rooted heritage, resonating with their spiritual and cultural identity. It is commonly recognized as 'Dashain music' within the Newa community, signifying the festival's arrival.
Although the exact genesis of Malshree dhun remains elusive, historical evidence suggests it may have emerged during the reign of King Mahindra Malla in the 16th century. King Mahindra Malla, renowned for his benevolence towards his subjects, is believed to have inspired the creation of this soothing tune as a mark of reverence. Over time, it became synonymous with Dashain, and the Newa community has carried forward this tradition, passing it down through generations.
Traditionally, the Malshree dhun was performed using percussion instruments like khin baja or mridangam, which are deeply rooted in Newa music. Its popularity surged during the rule of Pratap Malla, with the introduction of new instruments such as sitar and dholak for its rendition. The Newa community's commitment to preserving their musical traditions has contributed to the enduring appeal of Malshree dhun. Beyond its religious significance, the Malshree dhun has come to symbolize the commencement of autumn, coinciding with the start of Dashain. This seasonal connection is especially meaningful to the Newa people, who have a deep appreciation for the changing seasons and their cultural implications.
The tune's widespread popularity beyond the Kathmandu Valley and its association with the entire country's biggest festival can be attributed to Prithvi Narayan Shah's conquest of the valley. The Shah rulers adopted the tune in their army, using it to boost the morale of their soldiers, and this influence helped propagate the tradition among the Newa diaspora throughout Nepal.The Malshree dhun was highly valued by the Shah rulers, as evidenced by the publication of 'Brihat Raga Malshree' in 1912, containing songs composed by these rulers. While the instruments used to play the tune have evolved over time, its essence as a symbol of Dashain and the joy it brings has remained unaltered, further cementing its significance within the Newa community.
In modern times, people have adapted the tune for various occasions, but cultural purists within the Newa community argue that it should be preserved as a symbol of the festival's cultural significance and changing seasons, recognizing its profound ties to Newa heritage.
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