Mr. Bui Van Chuong (kneeling), Coc hamlet, Kim Boi commune (Kim Boi) instructs crossbow shooting techniques.
By the red fire on the stilt house, Mr. Bui Van Chuong, Coc hamlet, Kim Boi commune (Kim Boi) was nimbly whittling arrows and telling: "In the past, when there were no guns, the Muong people made crossbows for self-defense, to protect the village and to hunt for a living. The crossbow has accompanied their ancestors through many generations, not only as a weapon but also as a treasure of each family, passed down from generation to generation."
I looked up at the wall of the house, where an old but still sturdy crossbow was hung, like a part of the soul of the Muong people in the middle of the forest. Mr. Chuong shared: The crossbow of the Muong people is not simply a weapon but also a masterpiece of craftsmanship, the crystallization of ingenuity and experience passed down through generations. To make a good crossbow, the craftsman must follow strict principles: The crossbow blade - the part that determines the shooting power is made from old bamboo growing on the top of a high hill, where the harsh climate helps the bamboo to be strong and flexible. The cut bamboo is smoked in the kitchen loft for many months to dry naturally, absolutely not allowed to warp. The crossbow body is made from rosewood, a durable wood that rarely warps. The wood is naturally dried for many months before being sawn for crafting. The crossbow string is made from hemp fibers, carefully stripped with the resin of the leaves of the the to increase durability and firmness. The arrowhead is sharpened from old or dry bamboo, attached with wild pandan leaves to help the arrow fly far and accurately. Mr. Chuong emphasized: "Making a crossbow is an art, not everyone can do it. The most important thing is to choose bamboo and wood of the right age and at the right time. A good crossbow can be passed down for many generations."
In early spring, among the stilt houses faintly visible in the morning mist, the sound of the crossbow strings resounding loudly in the crossbow shooting competition - a long-standing traditional cultural feature. Muong men, from white-haired old men to young men, compete to choose the best crossbowman in the village. The elders believe that a good crossbowman will bring luck to the village, a bountiful harvest and a prosperous life. In the bustling atmosphere of the spring festival, each arrow flies, drawing perfect curves in the deep blue sky.
Mr. Bui Van Chuong is over 60 years old this year, but his crossbow still makes many young people unable to raise it. He said that recently, he, his nephew and nearly 100 crossbow enthusiasts organized a small tournament right at home in early spring and he won first prize. "It's fun, more and more young people love this sport. I also make crossbows to sell to those who are passionate, the most important thing is to pass on experience, keep the fire burning for the next generation," he added. Every time he mentions the crossbow, his eyes light up with pride. Not only appearing in everyday life, the crossbow is also associated with legends and myths. In history, the image of "one arrow hitting many targets" not only shows the talent of Muong archers but also a wise tactic of our ancestors in combat. Today, the crossbow is still preserved as a cultural heritage. Many crossbow clubs have been established, attracting both men and women to practice. Over the years, Hoa Binh crossbow athletes have always been at the top of the region, winning many awards at national tournaments. It is not only a sport but also an indispensable part of the Muong people's soul.
Mr. Bui Van Khang, an excellent crossbow athlete in Dong Lai commune (Tan Lac) shared: In 2023, I won 2 bronze medals and 1 silver medal in the regional and national crossbow shooting competitions. I am very happy that more and more young people love crossbow shooting. Not only men but also many women love and practice and compete in this sport . In the midst of modern life, it is fortunate that the crossbow still holds a place in the lives of the Muong people of Hoa Binh. Crossbow shooting competitions in the early year festivals are an opportunity for people to have fun, exchange, and help the younger generation understand more about national traditions.
I left the Muong village when the sun was at its zenith, carrying on my shoulder the small crossbow that Mr. Bui Van Chuong had given me - a precious souvenir from a land rich in cultural identity. The sound of the crossbow string being pulled out strongly during the spring competition still echoed in my mind, as a reminder of the precious object - the crossbow of the Muong people of Hoa Binh is not only a weapon, but also a symbol of intelligence, bravery and national martial spirit.
Hong Duyen
Source: https://baohoabinh.com.vn/16/199041/Ve-ban-Muong-nghe-ke-chuyen-chiec-no.htm
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