The presence of a large number of people, from young people to the elderly, not only made the atmosphere more exciting but also was a vivid demonstration of the spirit of solidarity in the community. Regardless of age or gender, everyone transformed into a real player, giving their all with each throw, each tug of war, each burst of joy when blindfolded and hitting a prize.
Mr. Lam Phet, representative of the Board of Directors of Soc Lon Pagoda, Loc Khanh Commune, Loc Ninh District, shared: "On the occasion of Chol Chnam Thmay this year, on behalf of the Board of Directors and village elders, I call on everyone to gather at the pagoda not only to offer gifts but also to participate in traditional folk games such as tug of war, sack jumping, hiding scarves, blindfolded gift-beating, ongkunh, chhung... This is an opportunity for everyone to meet, exchange, and together preserve the Khmer cultural identity, creating a warm and exciting Tet atmosphere."
Ms. Thi Anh, Soc Lon hamlet, emotionally said: “On the last day of Tet, everyone went to the pagoda, from children to the elderly, dancing and singing together, participating in folk games very enthusiastically. Everyone was happy, no one was shy or discriminated. I hope that in the new year, everyone will always be healthy, continue to preserve and spread the precious cultural values of the Khmer people."
The Tet atmosphere in Khmer hamlets is not only an occasion for reunion but also a "living school" for the young generation to learn, feel and love more the traditional culture of their people. Each folk game is not simply a fun game, but a link between the past and the present, a way for grandparents and parents to "pass on the fire" to their children and grandchildren through laughter, handshakes, and spirited throws in the temple yard. Thi Be, from Soc Lon hamlet, shared her joy: "On Tet, I get to play the game of bo ongkunh and cho chhung with my friends and uncles and aunts in the hamlet. Through these games, I understand more about the folk culture of my people and feel proud to be Khmer."
Khmer people sit in a circle playing hide-and-seek.
Not only the young, but also the elderly consider Tet a precious occasion to have fun with their children and grandchildren, continuing the tradition. Mrs. Thi K Hach, Cha La hamlet, said: "During the Tet holidays, I was very happy to meet my children and grandchildren and participate in folk games! I hope that next year, our people will be more present and reunite more happily."
These seemingly simple activities have profound meanings in terms of community cohesion and fostering national spirit. Mr. Lam Tich, from Soc Lon hamlet, commented: "Seeing uncles, aunts, and young people dancing, singing, and playing together during Tet, I feel very united. Folk games are not only a joy but also a part of the cultural soul left by our ancestors. I hope that Khmer people will always preserve and promote these beauties in modern life."
The fact that the Khmer people in Loc Khanh commune preserve traditional games is a vivid proof of their love for their culture. If each Chol Chnam Thmay season is filled with laughter, affection and folk culture, then that is the way for the tradition to continue to be maintained and spread in the social life of the Khmer people, contributing to enriching the cultural traditions of the nation.
Source: https://baobinhphuoc.com.vn/news/19/171681/preserving-khmer-culture-through-folk-plays
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