Unique ritual to pray for good luck of Ha Nhi ethnic people

The ritual observed by the Ha Nhi group in Muong Te district of Lai Chau province takes place in the first lunar month annually.

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Local people start arriving early in the morning to prepare offerings.

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The ritual is recognised as a part of the national intangible cultural heritage in 2019, to honour the cultural and religious values of the Ha Nhi ethnic group and encourage community activities.

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Women prepare balls for folk games, including nem con, which involves throwing a ball through a ring for good luck, during the ritual.

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Only healthy men are permitted to participate in this ritual.

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Offerings include pigs, chickens, sticky rice, and wine, with worshippers showing how grateful they are to the god of the forest for protecting them over the past year and praying for luck moving into the new lunar year.