Admire the strong, beautifully decorated female buffaloes in Ha Nam.

The large, strong buffaloes, adorned in vibrant colors, have long been a unique highlight of the Doi Son Tich Dien festival (Duy Tien town, Ha Nam province).

Every year, on the 7th day of the first lunar month, the Tich Dien festival takes place with great fanfare in the fields at the foot of Doi Mountain, reenacting the ancient legend of the king going down to the fields to plow. The day before, a lively buffalo decoration competition is also held, attracting numerous artists and local people.

The buffalo painting contest took place on the 6th day of the Lunar New Year. This year, the contest brought together 20 artists and groups of artists from many provinces and cities. Selected, healthy, and beautiful buffaloes became the canvases for the artists to unleash their creativity.

The evaluation and scoring should not only be based on the colors and patterns painted on the buffalo's body, but also highlight the zodiac theme of the year and accurately reflect the spirit of the festival.

With different perspectives and styles of expression, each artist creates a unique work of art.

Artist Hoang Trung Dung (from Thai Binh province ) said: “To participate in the competition, I had to carefully choose paints that were gentle on buffalo skin to minimize itching and discomfort. While painting, I had to adjust my hand pressure to ensure the paint adhered evenly.”

The artists are meticulous and precise in every brushstroke.

People in Ha Nam jokingly call these buffaloes "female buffaloes" because they are meticulously cared for and beautifully "dressed up".

Ms. Nguyen Thi Dong, owner of buffalo number 5, said that the Doi Son Tich Dien festival usually chooses female buffaloes to participate because of their gentle nature and ease of control. While painting, the buffalo owner will be present to hold the buffalo, ensuring the safety of the artist.

The buffalo painting contest has long been an integral part of the Doi Son Tich Dien festival, bringing new colors and a unique artistic touch to the event. The winning buffaloes were honored to be selected to participate in the ceremony today (February 4th, or the 7th day of the first lunar month).

Vietnamnet.vn

Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/ngam-nhung-nang-trau-to-khoe-duoc-trang-diem-dep-mat-o-ha-nam-2368323.html