Bhailo

Bhailo and Deusi Re are traditional songs that are sung during the festival of light Dipavali and also called "Tihar" in Nepal. ^[1] Children and teenagers^[2] sing the songs and dance as they go to various homes in their community, collecting money, sweets, food and giving blessings for prosperity. Bhailo is generally sung by girls, while Deusi is sung by boys. At the end of these songs, the woman of the house serve food and give money to these deusi/bhailo singers and dancers. In return, the Deusi/Bhailo team gives blessings for high income and prosperity.^[3][4][5]

Origin

The origins of the deusi bhailo traditions are not very clear. However, the song indicates that it is related to king Mahabali, since the lyrics include "We were sent by King Bali". The word "Deusire" can be broken down as "deu," which means give, and "sire," which is the Sanskrit word for the head. So Deusire means to offer one's head for a greater cause, or sacrifice oneself. According to Puranas, King Bali gave his own head to Vamana, the fifth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Bali was performing the Ashwamedhya Yajna when Vamana approaches Bali and asks for land that would equal three strides he took. Bali was known for giving alms to any one who came to his palace. Bali agreed to fulfill his demand. To Bali's great surprise, Vamana covered the Earth and the Universe with two steps, then asked the great king where he should place his third step. Bali offered his own head. Lord Vishnu, seeing the devotion of Bali, blessed him and raised to him to Suthala, the supreme position in heaven. For Bali's sacrifice, he gained Lord Vishnu's favour and also attained salvation. There is also a belief in the month of Kartik (the month when Baliraja donated his head) if one donates something, it will do good to the alms-giver.

Bhailo is traditionally played after Laxmi puja. It is not allowed to play before laxmi puja,

Entertainment

Deusi provides a cultural entertainment by a group that moves around local areas. It is composed of a lead role, chorus and some participants. The lead person generally wishes a blessings to the owners of the properties where they begin their shows. Traditionally, it was all live, real, and used minimal electronic instruments.

Performance

People gather and they sing and dance who will perform cultural shows in the streets or in front of the houses and buildings. One show lasts about half an hour in one spot. Then the group moves to a near by location. The shows may run for about a week during the period.

References