The Thai "firelighters" at the foot of Mount Lim
Amidst the ever-changing pace of modern life, the melodies of Khắp and Nhuôn, the sounds of the Khèn bè and Pí păn still regularly resonate in Lìm village (Hùng Chân commune). These are not just musical elements, but the heartbeat of memory and love for culture, preserved by the hands and minds of artisans who are silently extending the lifeblood of their ancestors' heritage.
Established in 2021, the Thai Culture Club of Lim village is a testament to the power of volunteerism. From a few initial members, the club has now gathered 30 cultural "core members." Regularly on the 15th of every month, the atmosphere in the small village becomes more vibrant than ever – a place wherepeople who love Thai cultureMeeting and sharing through dances and songs.
Leading this "common home" is Ms. Lo Thi Nam, a passionate Thai woman. Despite being busy with family responsibilities, she still manages to maintain a regular schedule of activities for the members. For Ms. Nam, the club is not simply a place for socializing, but a way to protect "traditional heritage" from the ravages of time.
"We hold our gathering on the 15th day of each lunar month. The members are mostly in their 40s and 60s, but whenever we start dancing, everyone's spirits are lifted," Mrs. Nam shared with a smile.
With tireless passion, Mrs. Nam, along with artisans like Mr. Lu Viet Xuan and Mr. Lo Van Dinh, has become a vibrant bridge connecting generations. They meticulously teach the younger generation every nuance of the Khap melody, every rhythmic note on the Pi instrument, and every note of the Khen be.
For Mr. Lu Viet Xuan, the sound of the Khen Be (bamboo mouth organ) is a love that was kindled in his childhood when he heard his father play it. It was this childhood fascination that motivated him to preserve the craft and now continue to pass it on to his descendants.
What is most valuable is that all activities are self-funded. From costumes and musical instruments to gatherings consisting only of cups of tea and herbal infusions, everything is contributed voluntarily by the members. They come together not for titles or remuneration, but because of an invisible bond: national pride.
The sounds of the khene (a traditional Vietnamese wind instrument) played by the artisans are not confined to their village; they have spread to neighboring communes through performances and cultural exchanges. However, behind this vibrant atmosphere, there are still concerns. The instruments need maintenance, the costumes are gradually fading, and the elderly artisans need more encouragement to continue their tireless journey.
Ms. Lo Thi Nam expressed: "We only hope for more attention and support to better serve our people, so that Thai culture will forever remain a source of pride for our village."
Preserving the Thai cultural club in Lim village means preserving the soul of Hung Chan mountain and forest. The support of the government and the community is the most valuable "fuel" for those who "keep the flame alive" here to continue contributing, so that the sound of the Thai flute and dance will forever resonate, overcoming all the changes of the times.
""Dictionary of Thai culture in Lim village":
- Khap, Nhuon, Xuoi: Characteristic folk melodies of the Thai people, used for courtship, blessings, or storytelling.
- Khen be: A polyphonic instrument, the soul of Thai festivals and Xoe dances.
- Pi pan: A special type of flute used by the Thai people, producing a high-pitched sound, often used to express feelings.
- The 15th of every month: Regular gathering day - a time for community connection in Lim village.
