The coming-of-age ceremony is a significant milestone in the life of a Dao man

According to Mr. Nong Quoc Thanh, former Deputy Director of the Department of Heritage, Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Dao people believe that a man, no matter how old, is not considered truly mature until he has undergone the coming-of-age ceremony. Only after this ceremony are they officially recognized as descendants of their ancestors, allowed to participate in the spiritual rituals of the lineage and entrusted with the responsibility of protecting and preserving the customs. Therefore, the conferment of the title is both an honor and a reminder of one’s duty.

The ceremony usually takes place over several days, with the participation of the shaman and a large number of villagers. The altar is solemnly decorated, and offerings are meticulously prepared. Amidst the sound of bells, drums and prayers to the ancestors, the person being ordained kneels, receiving their spiritual name and teachings on morality and human conduct. Each ritual contains a profound philosophy: living honestly, respecting parents, uniting with the community and working diligently.

The greatest value of the coming-of-age ceremony lies in its moral education and the strengthening of identity. Through this ceremony, young people understand that maturity is not just about growing older, but about maturing in responsibility. They were reminded to protect the forests, protecting the water sources and preserving their traditional homes. It is this spirit that has contributed to creating a strong Dao community, where each individual is clearly aware of their role in the overall development.

In the festive atmosphere of the new spring, the coming-of-age ceremony takes on even greater significance. After days of hard work, the villagers gather together to share their joy. Traditional dances and ancient songs are performed, creating a cultural space rich in identity. The festival is not just a private family affair, butit becomes a shared event for the entire village, strengthening community solidarity.

Today, many localities have shown interest in preserving and promoting the coming-of-age ceremony as a unique cultural tourism product. Tourists visit areas with large Dao ethnic minority populations to learn about their rituals, enjoy their cuisine and buy traditional brocade products. As a result, many households have gained additional income and developed community tourism and homestay models. Traditional culture is not only preserved but also providing impetus for economic development and improves the material living standards of the people.

In addition, the coming-of-age ceremony is also an opportunity to disseminate information and encourage people to properly implement the Party’s guidelines and policies, and the State’s laws and regulations. Many village elders and clan leaders incorporate content on building a new cultural life, eliminating outdated customs and encouraging children to go to school. Thanks to development support programs for ethnic minority and mountainous regions, the lives of the Dao people are gradually improving: “Roads have been expanded, electricity and clean water have reached every village, and new production models have brought clear results”, Mr. Nong Quoc Thanh further shared.

In the flickering firelight of the ceremonial night, when the Dao man is officially bestowed with his title, joy is not only evident on the faces of his family, but also spreads throughout the village. It is a belief in the future, in a younger generation capable of shouldering responsibilities and building a prosperous and happy life. The coming-of-age ceremony therefore not only closes a stage of maturity, but opens a new spring of faith. From that sacred ritual, the Dao people become even more proud of their origins, and even more determined to preserve their identity and develop their economy. When traditions are cherished, when the community wholeheartedly implements policies and guidelines, spring in the Dao village will become increasingly warm and enduring.

Between the ever-changing mountains and forests, the coming-of-age ceremony still shines like a generational flame, warming souls, igniting faith and guiding the Dao village towards a more prosperous future.