(VOVworld) - Performers from 250 art troupes nationwide are taking part in the 2nd Chau Van ritual festival in Hanoi. This is one of 33 national intangible cultural heritages recognized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

Chau Van or spiritual singing is an indispensable part in the worshipping practice of the Mother Goddess religion (Photo: Lan Anh/VOV5)

The event raises public awareness and understanding about the Mother Goddess worshiping belief. A member of the organizing board, Nguyen Tien Dung, said this event will consolidate Vietnam’s documentation of the Mother Goddess worshiping belief for UNESCO’s recognition of it as an intangible cultural heritage of the humankind. He noted:

“This year’s event aims to promote practitioners and places of Chau Van performance in the community as well as researcher of the belief. Chau Van singing, which is recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, first emerged during the Tran Dynasty in the 13th century in the northern province of Nam Dinh. The highly rhythmic form of singing often accompanies “Hau dong”, or mediumship, during rituals to honor the Mother Goddess and connect to other gods. It is mostly performed at temples and pagodas. The music and poetry performed in the folk art are blended with a variety of rhythms as well as folk arts such as flowery, martial arts, sculpture and fashion.”

The 2nd round of performances of best masterpieces will take place late November in Hanoi.