boys of san chi ethnic group undergo maturity ritual in cao bang picture 2
Hoang Van Lap, 16, a resident of Bao Lam district in Cao Bang province, prepares to undergo his maturity ritual.
boys of san chi ethnic group undergo maturity ritual in cao bang picture 3
Each family member receives enthusiastic support from other villagers ahead of the ritual.
boys of san chi ethnic group undergo maturity ritual in cao bang picture 4
San Chi ethnic people live typically reside in Bao Lam and Bao Lac districts of Cao Bang province. They often hold maturity rituals in February and September according to the lunar calendar.
boys of san chi ethnic group undergo maturity ritual in cao bang picture 5
The ritual lasts for three days and it helps to educate sons of the San Chi ethnic group about the various cultural values of their ancestors, thereby showing their gratitude to the ancestors and the gods.
boys of san chi ethnic group undergo maturity ritual in cao bang picture 6
Before the start of the ceremony attendees must follow certain rules, including not to kill animals and doing good deeds.

boys of san chi ethnic group undergo maturity ritual in cao bang picture 7
boys of san chi ethnic group undergo maturity ritual in cao bang picture 8
The ceremony also provides an opportunity to gather villagers and consolidate the neighbourhood, showcasing solidarity within the local community.
boys of san chi ethnic group undergo maturity ritual in cao bang picture 9
This ritual has been well preserved for several generations among members of the San Chi ethnic community.

boys of san chi ethnic group undergo maturity ritual in cao bang picture 10

boys of san chi ethnic group undergo maturity ritual in cao bang picture 11
You may also like

Weaving village in the city

NDO – Located in small streets of Ward 11, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, the Bay Hien Weaving Village was once a popular brand.

Worshipping of Mother Goddesses introduced in Russia

NDO/VNA – A seminar has been held in Moscow, Russia, to introduce the Vietnamese worship of Mother Goddesses of the Three Realms.

Creative methods to promote heritages, tourism and new art forms

NDO – Vietnam has more than 60,000 intangible cultural heritages, which are considered as a huge treasure for artistic creativities serving for contemporary life.

Building museums of traditional craft villages

NDO – In the context of international integration with strong impacts from the industrial revolution 4.0, many traditional trade villages are facing the risk of falling into oblivion and disappearance.

Traditional festivals of ethnic minority groups restored

NDO – The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MoCST) has issued a document guiding the implementation of restoring traditional festivals of ethnic minority groups.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR