Analysing Deuda Folk Culture of Western Nepal from the Perspective of Informal Education and Social Learning

Abstract

This study analyses the Deuda folk culture prevalent in Sudurpaschim and Karnali regions of western Nepal from the perspective of informal education, social learning, and cultural transmission. Deuda is not only a medium of folk songs and dances but also an important cultural practice for building social relationships, collective participation, cultural continuity, and imparting life-useful knowledge. Although modern education system prioritises formal education, community-based cultural practices play an important role in building an individual’s knowledge, skills, values, and perspectives. This study attempts to highlight the educational importance of Deuda and its potential importance as an indigenous pedagogy. A qualitative research design employing an interpretive approach has been adopted in the study. Semi-structured interviews, group discussions, participant observation and related document study were used for data collection. Deuda artists, elders, youth, and teachers were involved through purposive sampling. The collected data have been analysed using the thematic analysis method. The findings show that Deuda is an effective medium for intergenerational transmission of language, history, cultural values, moral education, social behaviour, and practical knowledge. It encourages observation, imitation, participation, collaboration, social inclusion, and collective identity building. However, modernisation, migration, digital entertainment, and declining participation of the younger generation have been found to create challenges to its continuity. Therefore, the findings imply that by accepting Deuda as an educational resource based on local knowledge systems, its interactive and rhythmic practice can be integrated with local curricula, child-centred and inclusive teaching methods, adult education, and community-based learning to strengthen the relationship between schools and communities.