Choliya dance dates back a thousand years, a traditional dance form performed in the Kumaon and some neighboring areas of Nepal. The sword dance is rooted to the martial traditions of the people of this area.
It is mainly performed during marriage processions and is believed to be auspicious as it provides protection from evil spirits and demons. The instruments used are Turi, Nagphani, and Ransanga of the brass family accompanied by percussion instruments Dhol & Damau whereas Masakbeen (मसकबीन) or Bagpipe introduced by the British.
