Preserving the cultural heritage of the Phu La people

In the communes of Quang Binh, Ban May and Xin Man, the Phu La ethnic community, though numbering only just over 600 people, continues to quietly preserve and pass down its unique cultural traditions.

Lung Chu Din of Phu La Hamlet, Quang Binh Commune, teaches the two-string fiddle to local villagers.

At 67, Lung Chu Din, the only artisan in Phu La Hamlet proficient in playing the traditional two-string fiddle, remains devoted to teaching his children and grandchildren how to play and appreciate its distinctive melodies. Thanks to his dedication, the instrument’s sounds are now heard not only during festivals and village gatherings but also deeply resonate with younger generations, helping them connect with their roots.

Alongside music, embroidery and traditional brocade weaving are signature cultural practices of the Phu La. According to Truong Thi Din, women’s attire is crafted from indigo or black fabric, adorned with red, white, yellow and green patterns using patchwork embroidery techniques. Completing a traditional outfit can take several months, and girls begin learning embroidery from a very young age. During festivals, New Year celebrations and weddings, these traditional garments are proudly worn to honor their cultural heritage.

Phu La Hamlet in Quang Binh Commune has 15 households with nearly 100 residents. The community practices ancestor worship and holds a forest worship ceremony annually on the 2nd day of the 2nd lunar month, praying for favorable weather, abundant harvests and livestock prosperity - a ritual symbolizing harmony between humans and nature. In Xin Man Commune, the Phu La community has over 100 households with 500 residents, mainly in Chung Chai Hamlet. Their living conditions have gradually improved thanks to Party and State policies, particularly through the three National Target Programs.

The newly completed Phu La Cultural House in Xin Man, designed to resemble a traditional Phu La dwelling, now serves as a spacious community space for cultural activities, brocade weaving, preservation of musical instruments, traditional clothing and rituals. Local authorities plan to continue integrating cultural preservation with livelihood support and community-based tourism, ensuring that the vibrant cultural identity of the Phu La people is safeguarded and passed on to future generations.

Moc Lan