Swapma Samlo is a cradle song laden with tradition and significance. According to the Mundum, the ancient tale recounts the story of Mujingna Kheyangna, believed to be the first woman on earth, who lovingly gave birth to a baby named Lalawehang Susuweyang. Enhancing the cradle with the soft leaves of rhododendron and bamboo, she sought to create a comfortable cocoon for her newborn in hopes of lulling him into a peaceful slumber. Despite her best efforts, the infant was born unsettled and restless, crying persistently and unable to find rest. Desperate to soothe her precious child, she resorted to singing gentle lullabies while rocking the cradle, but to no avail.
It was during one of these sleepless nights that a divine intervention occurred. Niwabhungma, a spiritual presence, manifested in her dreams and imparted the sacred cradle song that would hold the key to calming the agitated baby. The words of the song were imbued with magical properties, invoking the child’s lineage and connection to powerful elemental forces: “You are son of Lhasa-Bhot, son of Terai-Madesh, son of the sun-set direction, son of wind and cyclone, and son of the divine.”
With the melodious verses filling the air, the soothing rhythm and enchanting melody worked their magic on the restless baby. As the mother continued to sing the prophetic cradle song, a sense of tranquility descended upon her infant son, eventually lulling him into a deep and restful slumber. The power of music, tradition, and divine guidance intertwined in a harmonious symphony, bringing solace and peace to the household as the child finally succumbed to the embrace of sleep.
