By Nabin Raj Kuinkel, Lamjung, Oct. 27: A traditional 24-seat rote-ping (wooden swing) installed for Dashain in Bardhangaun, Handikhola, Madhyanepal Municipality-10 of Lamjung, has been attracting domestic tourists while helping preserve local culture.
During Dashain, four-seat and eight-seat traditional swings are commonly set up in villages. However, swings with 24 seats are rare. In the past, swings with eight, 12 and 16 seats could be found in various parts of Lamjung.
As such traditional swings have gradually disappeared, the 24-seat swing in Bardhangaun has begun drawing crowds of visitors eager to ride it and watch others enjoy it.
According to Ramchandra Bhandari, ward chairperson and municipal spokesperson, the swing was formally inaugurated on the day of Phulpati following traditional worship and rituals. It has been operated during Dashain for the past three years, he said.
“The swing, which reflects the traditions and cultural significance of Dashain, has added to the festive atmosphere in the area. As its popularity grows, more people are coming to ride it. People visit with the desire to experience a 24-seat swing at least once in their lives,” Bhandari said.
Visitors can ride the swing free of charge, with local youths helping to operate it by pushing it into motion.
The municipality initially provided Rs. 300,000 to support the preservation of the traditional swing. Local donations and voluntary labour have since contributed to its construction and operation. Locals took the initiative to build it themselves.
According to local Kaji Dura, such swings could be seen in various parts of Lamjung, Gorkha and Tanahun 30 to 40 years ago. As they have become increasingly rare, the community decided to preserve the swing to introduce the younger generation to this traditional form of recreation.
“Nowadays, swings are hardly set up in villages. A traditional wooden swing with 24 seats is even harder to find. People are coming from distant places to ride it and see it,” Dura said.
An eight-seat traditional wooden swing has also been built at the same location. Dura said it is operated when visitor numbers are low.
Mayor Ramesh Kumar Pandey said traditional swings help preserve the distinctive character of festivals and encourage younger generations to take an interest in safeguarding their culture.
Bardhangaun, where the Dura community is predominant, has been organising various activities to preserve its art and culture while attracting tourists. A traditional circular house showcasing the art and culture of the Dura community has also been built near the swing.
Visitors can tour the house to learn about the community’s traditions and culture. Locals said the arrival of people from different villages and places to ride the swing, visit the house and make TikTok videos has helped boost tourism in the village.
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