New Rice Festival of Muong people in Ninh Binh becomes National Intangible Cultural Heritage

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has just issued Decision No. 20/QD-BVHTTDL on including the New Rice Festival of the Muong people in Ninh Binh province in the List of National Intangible Cultural Heritage.

According to the Decision, the New Rice Festival of the Muong people in Yen Son ward, Phu Son commune, Cuc Phuong commune, Nho Quan commune, Phu Long commune and Gia Lam commune has been officially inscribed. This recognition contributes to enriching the cultural heritage system of Ninh Binh.

The New Rice Festival, also known as the New Rice Celebration, is one of the most important rituals of the year for the Muong people. The festival is usually held after the harvest, to express gratitude to the heavens, ancestors, and deities for blessing the bountiful harvest and favourable weather.

During the ceremony, the finest rice grains from the new harvest are selected to be processed into rice and sticky rice offered to the altar. This ritual carries deep spiritual significance, reflecting the Muong community's respect for the fruits of their labour and their principle of remembering their roots.

Beyond its religious value, the New Rice Festival is also an opportunity for families, clans, and the village community to gather and strengthen their bonds after a hard harvest season.

Within the festival space, many characteristic folk cultural activities are organised, such as gong and drum performances, love songs, and traditional games, contributing to the preservation of the ethnic cultural identity.

For Ninh Binh province, the recognition of the New Rice Festival as a national intangible cultural heritage necessitates strengthening conservation efforts and promoting the heritage's value, with the community playing a leading role. This is not only a source of pride for the Muong people but also an opportunity to promote traditional culture, contributing to the sustainable development of tourism and the local economy./.