Kathmandu: Many stories have their own rendition of an attractive young woman falling for a hideous-looking man who later is shown to have an admirable personality. Beauty and the Beast–an American musical romantic fantasy film released in 2017–is a popular story in this genre. Likewise, other fascinating versions of similar stories have been passed down through generations. The story of Majipa Lakhey and Bala Mayeju (or Bala Maicha) is one of them.
Majipa Lakhey is a special Lakhey in Newari mythology, worshipped as a ferocious deity despite being from a demon clan. His dance is featured in Indra Jatra every year. The recently-released music video ‘Mhaa Jita Hayekay Matey’ is based on his love story with a country girl Bala Mayeju.
‘Mhaa Jita Hayekay Matey’ translated in English as ‘Do Not Woo Me’ is an animated music video that depicts the struggle between the two focal characters—Majipa Lakhey and Bala Mayeju. Bala Mayeju is shown to be hesitant about pursuing a new life with Majipa Lakhey, as she loves her family and community more than anything else.
Meanwhile, Majipa Lakhey is striving to convince her that a life together would be full of love and that they would be the happiest couple ever.
The song in Nepal Bhasa is a retelling of a famous Newari folk tale. Beautifully sung and composed, the lyrics reminisce the mythical love story in the form of a conversation between Majipa Lakhey and Bala Mayeju. The video shows Bala Mayeju’s unwillingness in listening to Majipa Lakhey’s sweet promises for fear that he may convince her to leave everything she loves behind. Majipa Lakhey tells that he craves her company as there’s no one like her in the world. He sings about the blooming flower of love in his ‘demon heart’ because of her.
The music video shows a glimpse into the legend of the passion and devotion between the two lovers.
The animated video has its share of awe-inspiring moments. Though the animation isn’t on par with others of the genre, the effort is clearly visible.
All in all, the music video shows a glimpse into the legend of the passion and devotion between the two lovers.
The song is sung by Nisha Deshar and Satya Narayan Manandhar and composed by Bishwo Shahi. The lyrics is credited to Sanyukta Shrestha. The animation is done by Sanyukta Shrestha and Niyukta Shrestha. The music video is the second track released from an upcoming animated movie ‘Lakhay’ slated to release in 2023.
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