Muong Lai commune is renowned for its well-preserved Tay ethnic culture, from their language and writing system to their traditional Then, Khap, and Cooi folk songs and stilt houses. However, their clothing is the most expressive "non-verbal" language of their identity. The Tay indigo-dyed clothing may seem simple at first glance, lacking the elaborate embroidery of the Mong or Dao people, but creating an authentic outfit requires skill, finesse, and patience from the women.
Ms. Loc Thi Huyen's passion for needlework and sewing began in her youth. In her memory, the image of her grandmother and mother diligently working at the loom, their hands stained blue with indigo, has become an integral part of her being. Having dedicated over 20 years to sewing and embroidery, Ms. Huyen has experienced the ups and downs of the times. There were periods when traditional clothing was overshadowed by the convenience of modern garments, but she never considered giving up her passion. She understood that if she let go, future generations might only know the color of indigo through old books or documents.
That concern is what motivates her to constantly hone her skills. Every stitch she makes is exquisitely crafted, perfectly fitted, and retains the "soul" of the Tay Muong Lai people. Word spread, and people from the village, neighboring villages, and even other provinces came to her in increasing numbers. They not only commissioned her to make costumes for festivals and weddings but also wanted to own a set of traditional clothing to wear in their daily lives as a way of affirming their ethnic pride.
Driven by the growing market demand and the desire to preserve culture in a systematic and long-term way, in 2023, Ms. Huyen decided to establish the Cooperative for Tailoring Traditional Ethnic Costumes. This is not simply a business establishment, but a "common home" for those who love traditional culture.
Ms. Loc Thi Huyen said: "I established the cooperative not to enrich myself, but to help the women work together to preserve traditional crafts and maintain the beauty of our ethnic culture. I fear that if we don't act now, in the future, when the older generation passes away, the soul and spirit of the Tay Muong Lai people will gradually fade away."
Since the cooperative was established, the small space in Hamlet 7 has always been bustling with the sounds of sewing machines and the laughter and chatter of the women. Ms. Loc Thi Huyen has gathered women in the hamlet who share the same passion and skill to pass on their craft. Many women who previously only worked in the fields with unstable incomes now have stable jobs with earnings of 5-7 million VND per month.
Ms. Huyen meticulously guided everyone, from choosing fabrics to embroidering delicate patterns on headscarves and bags. She always reminded everyone: "When sewing clothes for our people, we must not be careless; every stitch must contain the heart of the craftsman." This strictness built the cooperative's reputation, so all the products made were sold immediately.
Ms. Hoang Thi Ngoi, a member of the Cooperative for tailoring traditional ethnic costumes, said: "By joining the cooperative, I not only have a stable income to support my family but also learn to appreciate the value of my ethnic costumes."
Ms. Ngoi said: "I feel very happy and proud that the people of Muong Lai not only wear traditional clothing during festivals and holidays but also in their daily lives."
Looking at the neatly arranged indigo fabrics in the workshop, Ms. Huyen couldn't hide her emotion as the fruits of her labor and that of her fellow members of the cooperative were well-received by the community. She shared that the greatest joy wasn't the economic profit, but seeing the women and children confidently wearing their traditional ethnic costumes during village festivals. This is proof that Tay culture still has enduring vitality in modern life. Her cooperative has now become a shining example in the movement to develop the economy while preserving culture in Muong Lai commune.
Mr. Nong Duc Them, Deputy Head of the Culture and Social Affairs Department of Muong Lai commune, said: “Ms. Huyen's cooperative is not just a production facility, but has become a cultural 'bridge' between generations. This approach helps preserve the Tay ethnic identity and contributes to promoting sustainable cultural tourism in the locality.”
Ms. Loc Thi Huyen's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication. Amidst today's hectic life, those deeply committed to the indigo dyeing tradition, like her, serve as a bridge between the past and the future. Through the skillful hands and heartfelt dedication of Ms. Huyen and the women of Village 7, the indigo dyeing tradition of the Tay people of Muong Lai will reach even further, carrying the story of a people rich in identity, valuing loyalty and compassion, and always cherishing their ancestral values.
Bidding farewell to Muong Lai in the twilight, the image of the women diligently working with indigo dye remains vividly imprinted in my mind as a beautiful symbol of national pride and love for my homeland.
Source: https://baolaocai.vn/nguoi-nang-long-voi-sac-cham-que-huong-post893250.html
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