Open Thado Bhaka Competition to Be Held for the First Time in Gorkha

For the first time in Gorkha, an open Thado Bhaka competition is set to take place on Baisakh 11, marking the occasion of Earthquake Memorial Day. The Thado Bhaka Conservation and Promotion Committee has announced participation from more than 15 teams, with cash prizes to be awarded to the winners. The first, second, and third place winners will receive NPR 80,000, 50,000, and 30,000 respectively.

This event marks the inaugural open Thado Bhaka competition in Gorkha district. Preparations are in full swing to hold the competition at the Rani Pokhari premises in the district headquarters on Baisakh 11. The organizing committee emphasized in a press conference on Sunday that the primary goal of the contest is to preserve and promote local culture. Committee Chairperson Prithvi Gurung provided further insights on the event.

Chairperson Gurung stated, “Thado Bhaka is gradually disappearing as it is not being passed down to younger generations. This competition aims to preserve and promote this cultural heritage.” He also highlighted the intention to honor veteran creators of Thado Bhaka and encourage emerging talents. Participants are expected not only from Gorkha but also from neighboring districts including Lamjung, Tanahun, and Kaski.

Cash prizes of NPR 80,000 for first place, NPR 50,000 for second, and NPR 30,000 for third will be awarded. Additionally, a consolation prize of NPR 10,000 will be given. During the event, one veteran and one young performer of Thado Bhaka will be honored. The organizers estimate that the competition will incur expenses of approximately NPR 1.8 million. Ward Chairpersons Vishnu Rana and Rajendra Kumar Joshi of Gorkha Municipality have called for unity among all stakeholders to protect and promote Thado Bhaka.