The Red Dao people make up nearly 45% of the population of Son Luong highland commune in Lao Cai province, mainly living in villages namely Nam Muoi, Hao Panh, Nam Bieu, Lang Co, Lien Suu, Nga Hai, Khe Trang, Suoi Bac, Suoi Bo, Suoi Quyen, Tham Co, and Vang Ngan.
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Red Dao people of Son Luong commune, Lao Cai province, attend ceremony and feast on “Tiger Avoidance” day in traditional attire. |
According to tradition, Dao ethnic people refrain from entering the forest or doing heavy labor to avoid angering the Tiger spirit, thereby protecting livestock and crops and praying for peace and safety. It is also a time for rest and community gathering.
The Dao people in Son Luong live in the areas some 700 to 1,200 meters above sea level, often covered by drifting clouds. The Red Dao people regard the mountains and wildlife as protective spiritual forces in their lives. According to long-standing belief, after months of hibernation in caves, tigers would reappear during warmer days of spring, ready to prey on humans or unattended livestock, such as pigs, chickens, buffaloes, and cows. Therefore, on the first Tiger day of the first lunar month each year, no one in the village is seen carrying knives or hoes into the forest or fields.
Trieu Van Ly, a meritorious artisan of the Red Dao ethnic group in Vang Ngan village, said, “Although no one sees tigers in the mountains anymore, at the beginning of the New Year, the Red Dao people in Son Luong still regard the tiger avoidance custom as a source of spiritual strength. Village elders say that since ancient times their ancestors observed tiger avoidance in the spring. During these days, villagers do not go to the fields or forests; farming tools are neatly stored in a corner of the house and must not be touched; and loud noises in the house are strictly avoided. People believe that violating these taboos would bring misfortune throughout the year.”
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Red Dao people in Son Luong commune organize festive activities on “Tiger Avoidance” day. |
“Tiger Avoidance” day is likened to an “International Labor Day” of the Red Dao in Son Luong. On this day, people rest before beginning the new spring crop season of rice and maize cultivation. The Red Dao also organize various community activities in which elders calmly practice calligraphy to celebrate the New Year; boys and girls take part in games and social exchanges; women sew and embroider; children wear their newest and most beautiful traditional costumes to play. Villagers gather to share farming experiences, hoping for abundant harvests and a prosperous, happy life.
Translated by Mai Huong