Grass-cutting - Folk game preserving cultural identity

Cao Bang - Join the game , each person needs to show their bravery before their opponent, changing the way they spread their hands to make the opponent unable to guess.

"Lay co" or "sai ma" is an exchange activity during holidays, New Year, and happy days of the Tay, Nung, Mong... in the provinces of Cao Bang, Bac Kan , Lang Son and some other localities, imbued with unique folk culture. Photo: Son Viet.

The way to play grass is similar to rock, paper, scissors.

There are only two players in each round. When playing, they call out a number in unison. Which number is up to them. They spread out their fingers, as many as they like. As long as the sum of their fingers matches the number they called out, whoever guesses correctly wins. Whoever loses is penalized.

Grass cutting does not discriminate by age or gender. Anyone can compete.

According to cultural researcher - Vuong Hung, "lay co" is "lai qua" (again), a transliteration from Chinese. It means one person gives a response, the other person responds, and from there finds the right side (winner).

If the opponent opens his hand according to the rules and is caught, it is called catching the horse, in the local language it is called “pát ma”. If one side loses consecutively without gaining any points, it is called “pac pan” which means “knock out”, and will receive double the penalty. If the side gains 4 points, it wins, the losing side must receive a penalty (can be fined for alcohol or other forms).

When players compete, the referee must understand the rules of the game, be fair and transparent. If the referee handles the situation incorrectly, he will be subject to punishment.

This cultural feature has been deeply ingrained in the subconscious of many generations. When the community or family has fun, "grass-making" is indispensable to create a lively and joyful atmosphere.

At the cultural and sports activity space at Kim Dong Walking Street, the Management Board has included this game in monthly competitions to promote and attract tourists to experience folk culture.

Laodong.vn