Fading beat of Jhijhiya: Mithila struggles to preserve a living tradition

Once a vibrant part of Dashain celebrations in Mithila, Jhijhiya is losing its original songs and style, raising concerns about the future of the cultural tradition

Jhijhiya dance being presented in Janakpur. All photos: Birendra Raman

DHANUSHA: With the commencement of Bijaya Dashami, the excitement of the Jhijhiya dance (a highly vibrant, ritualistic cultural folk dance originating from the ancient Mithila region, which spans across Northern Bihar of India and the Madhesh Province of Nepal) has heightened in power shrines from villages to towns across Mithilanchal. This traditional folk dance, performed in praise of the goddess from Ghatasthapana to Bijaya Dashami, is deeply tied to the cultural identity of Mithila. However, concerns regarding its conservation have started to grow, as its original style is disappearing in recent times and its appeal among the younger generation is declining.

In the Jhijhiya dance, women perform while balancing a clay pot with numerous holes on their heads. A lamp is lit inside the pot, and traditional Jhijhiya songs are sung alongside the dance. The melody of the song, the rhythm of the dance, and the collective presentation captivate the audience. On the day of Ghatasthapana, there is a tradition of formally initiating the Jhijhiya dance by offering worship at the Dihwar temple of the village or town. Following that, the dance is also presented after reaching other goddess shrines.

Enthusiasm in Villages, Modernity in Cities

The enthusiasm for the Jhijhiya dance can still be witnessed in the rural areas of Mithilanchal. In cities, however, it is organized only through the active involvement of a few local youth clubs. Experts note that even in villages, this tradition is gradually declining. The Jhijhiya dance, practiced since ancient times in Mithila, is viewed in connection with Durga Puja and Dashain. It is not merely a medium of entertainment but also a cultural tradition expressing devotion to the goddess and community faith.

A view of the Jhijhiya dance being performed in Janakpur

According to folk belief, the Jhijhiya dance is performed with the purpose of protecting children and society from the influence of evil forces. Wishes to escape the effects of black magic and witchcraft are also linked to it. The burning lamp and the clay pot pierced with countless holes are distinctive symbols of this tradition. According to folk belief, it is held that if a witch manages to count the holes in the pot, the dancing woman will die. Due to this belief, it is said to be a tradition for women to shake their heads from side to side while dancing with the pot on their heads.

The Jhijhiya dance possesses its own rhythm and beat. A special atmosphere is created as women sing songs in groups while balancing the pot on their heads. Along with praising the goddess, words abusing and challenging witches are also used in the lyrics. In folk belief, such songs are considered a means to diminish the influence of evil forces.

Belief linked to ‘Tantra and Tantric practices’