Ethnic minority people in the Central Highlands possess a unique culture, which is highlighted by their springtime festivals and cuisine when people set aside their field work to enjoy the season. As soon as villagers finish harvesting their crops (“Mnam Thun” in the E De language and “Mham Bar” or “Bri Rhair” in the M’Nong language), springtime knocks on their door. People dress up in new brocade clothes, organize many small parties and invite each other to share the joy of the season. It is also an occasion to show gratitude to the gods and ancestors, and to pray for good health. The E De people are used to living next to forests, streams and rivers and their livelihood depends on nature. They make their living through cultivation and hunting so there is always a breath of nature in their traditional costumes and dishes. E De costume is made of brocade. Unique and beautiful clothing is created by the skilful hands of women using simple tools. Brocade weaving is a profession that not only beautifies people, but also promotes the traditional craft. According to the elder Y Hen in Cu Lie M’Nong village, Cu M’gar district, Dak Lak province, his people are aware of the need to preserve their traditional customs such as living in stilt houses, drinking Can wine out of a jug through pipes, beating gongs and weaving brocade. Central Highlanders also have a special culinary culture of spicy dishes that are made entirely from natural ingredients. The 100-year-old Tring village has the highest number of E De people in Buon Ho town, Dak Lak province. A cultural house was built with State support that provided villagers with a communal space and a newly-established brocade weaving co-operative has created more jobs for local residents. Spring is also the time to welcome the Lunar New Year festival (Tet). This is when the central highlanders enjoy their most delicious foods and join in interesting folk games such as stick pushing, fencing and crossbow shooting. An indispensable part of the festival is this resounding tons of gongs. “You will be very interested in the gong once you hear its sound,” said Y Te, who has a valuable collection of 30 gongs in various sizes. When the spring comes, people beat gongs to create a festive atmosphere and joyful spirit over all the villages. (vovnews.vn Mar 31)
