Young Mong men and women in Nghe An eagerly throw pao to find lovers.
(Baonghean.vn) - Every time Tet comes, young men and women of the Mong ethnic group in the highlands of Nghe An eagerly join the Pao throwing festival. From these Pao throwing competitions, they get to know each other and many become husband and wife.
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The Mong people's Pao Throwing Festival takes place from the first day of Tet to around January 12. Previously,Mong people celebrate Tet separatelyat the end of October (lunar calendar), but since the beginning of the 20s, according to the general policy, this community has celebrated Lunar New Year with the people of the whole country. Photo: Dao Tho |
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Pao throwing festival usually takes place in large open fields in villages. There, men and women stand in two rows facing each other and find like-minded people to throw the pao to each other. Photo: Dao Tho |
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In the past, pao balls were often tied together with linen, but now Mong men and women find small balls that fit their hands to throw. While throwing, they sing folk songs (cu xia) about love between couples, praising their hometowns and villages to confide in and learn about each other. Photo: Dao Tho |
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Many children are also bought colorful dresses by their parents to celebrate Spring with their siblings. Photo: Dao Tho |
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Hmong girls in the Pao throwing festival. Photo: Dao Tho |
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Ms. Lau Y Xi in Muong Long commune (Ky Son) said that the Pao throwing festival is an opportunity for men and women to get to know each other and if they are compatible, it can lead to marriage with the wife-catching ceremony taking place later if both sides agree. This year, due to the impact of the epidemic, many people only stay around the village to enjoy the festival and do not dare to go far to have fun. Photo: Dao Tho |
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Married women also gather at pao throwing spots to enjoy the Spring Festival with their children and grandchildren. Photo: Dao Tho |