Re-enactment of the rain-praying ceremony of the Jrai people in Krong Pa

Re-enactment of the rain-praying ceremony of the Jrai people in Mlah village, Phu Can commune, Krong Pa district. Photo: Vu Chi

The rain-praying ceremony of the Jrai people in Krong Pa is a unique ritual, demonstrating the deep relationship between humans and nature. The ceremony is usually held in April every year with the wish for the gods to bless favorable weather, lush vegetation, and bountiful crops.

Jrai girls in traditional costumes perform xoang dance to celebrate the rain-praying ceremony. Photo: Vu Chi

Next to the offering tray consisting of 1 cow, 5 jars of wine, 5 plates of meat, 5 plates of rice and 5 cups of wine, village elder Nay Chung conveyed the villagers' request to the Yangs: "Oh Yangs up there. Oh Yangs of water, Yangs of earth, Yangs of rain. You are up there, on the mountains, in the rivers, in the forests. Today the villagers gather offerings, set up jars of rice wine to offer you. The land is cracked, the fields are dry, the trees are withered. The people are thirsty, the cattle and buffaloes are emaciated. Please have mercy on the villagers, open the gates of heaven, pour down sacred rain, water the mountains, hills, rivers, and fields. Rain down to make the cattle and buffaloes fat, and the villagers warm and full...".

As soon as the prayer ended, the shaman took a bowl of water and poured it around to perform a ritual. The sound of gongs and drums resounded, and Jrai girls in traditional costumes joined in the graceful and rhythmic xoang dance.

The shaman and guests enjoy a glass of wine together after the ceremony. Photo: Vu Chi

The shaman took the first sip of wine from the jar and then filled the cups for the guests. To the sound of gongs and drums, locals and tourists ate and drank together happily.

Recreating the rain-praying ceremony is not only a religious activity but also unites the community to join hands in preserving the traditional cultural values ​​of local ethnic minorities.

Clip: Vu Chi

Source: https://baogialai.com.vn/phuc-dung-le-cung-cau-mua-cua-nguoi-jrai-o-krong-pa-post320271.html