[Photo] Cultural imprints from the chin tattoo custom of the Mang people in Lai Chau

The Mang are one of the few ethnic groups in Vietnam with a population of less than 10,000 people, mainly living in Lai Chau province. In the rich cultural treasure of this community, the custom of chin tattooing is a typical feature, expressing the Mang ethnic identity and traditional religious and spiritual life.

For generations, chin tattoos have not only marked adulthood but also expressed the deep spiritual belief of the Mang people in the protection and shelter of their ancestors and heaven and earth. Although this custom is gradually fading due to factors of modern life, for the Mang people, chin tattoos are a unique cultural mark.

In order to preserve this precious heritage, the local government and the cultural sector have coordinated to organize a ceremony to re-enact the chin tattoo custom, thereby introducing traditional customs to the community and tourists as well as the diversity and richness of Vietnamese ethnic culture. This is not only an effort to preserve culture but also to arouse the spirit of preserving identity in the Mang community today.

Nowadays, only a few elderly Mang people still have tattoos around their mouths according to custom. (Photo: VU LINH)

Over time, the tattoos around the mouth fade. (Photo: VU LINH)

Reenacting the unique chin tattoo custom of the Mang people. (Photo: VU LINH)

According to the Mang people, chin tattooing is a ritual marking adulthood. (Photo: VU LINH)

Cultural identity of the region through costumes. (Photo: VU LINH)

Unique cultural identity of the Mang ethnic group. (Photo: VU LINH)

Mang women in traditional costumes. (Photo: VU LINH)

Mang girl's smile. (Photo: VU LINH)

Mang women in Nam Ban commune, Nam Nhun district, Lai Chau province. (Photo: VU LINH)

Introducing the cultural identity of the Mang people through the custom of chin tattooing. (Photo: VU LINH)

Unique beauty of the Mang ethnic group. (Photo: VU LINH)

NGOC LIEN

Vu Linh

Source: https://nhandan.vn/anh-dau-an-van-hoa-tu-tuc-xam-cam-cua-nguoi-mang-lai-chau-post877663.html