“Mat nha” - A traditional ritual of Muong ethnic people

In the “Great Unity of Ethnic Minorities - Vietnamese Cultural Heritage” Week taking place at the Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism, two shamans Bui Van Minh and Bui Van Hai from Hoa Binh province re-enacted the “mat nha” ritual (the ritual to drive away bad luck) of the Muong ethnic people. The dossier of this cultural heritage has been submitted to UNESCO for recognition as a world cultural heritage element.

“Mat nha” ceremony re-enacted at the traditional house of Muong ethnic people at the Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism

House-owner preparing offerings for the ritual

The offerings must include a duck and be placed in a higher position facing the main door.

The shaman invite deities to the ceremony to enjoy the offerings.

The shaman sprinkles water to cool the offerings, the furniture in the house and people.

After the ceremony, the shaman ties red threads around the wrists of participants.

At the end of the ritual, the shaman invites all the people to drink alcohol with the house’s owner family.

Translated by Quynh Oanh