“Maturity” ritual of Dao ethnic in Lao Cai
Duong Toan -
(VOVWORLD) - “Cấp sắc”, which means “maturity ritual”, is a typical cultural feature of the Dao people. A Dao man is not allowed to practice or join rituals until he attends the “cap sac” ceremony. The coming-of-age ceremony often takes place in the first, eleventh or twelfth lunar month of the year when locals enjoy free time after the harvest.
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A welcoming ceremony for the shaman who will host the "cap sac" ritual.
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Dao ethnic men play music to welcome the shaman.
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The shaman prepares documents for the ritual.
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Worship paintings are indispensable in any maturity rituals of the Dao ethnic group.
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The corner where Dao ethnic people set up their family's main altar.
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An area reserved for Dao boys who will attend the "cap sac" ritual.
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The shaman conducts a rite to inform ancestors of the ceremony.
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Dao ethnic women in colorful costumes during the "cap sac" ritual.
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 Dao ethnic women conduct a small ritual before having meal.
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Shamans conduct a ritual dedicated to the Jade Emperor at a twelve-lamp "cap sac" ritual.
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Yin and Yang wooden bars are tools of the shaman.
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The ritual can also be held for those who have died. They are symbolized by small bamboo dummies on which their names and birth dates are written.
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Duong Toan