On the misty highlands, there are artisans who still silently dedicate their whole lives to preserving precious heritage values. They are the vivid link between the past and the future of national identity.
In Pac Nam (Bac Kan), the Luon Coi tune has long been an indispensable "spiritual dish" of the Tay people. Artisan Hoang Thi My, who has been associated with this song for more than 40 years, shared that Luon Coi is not only a confession of love from couples but also a voice of heart praising the homeland, guiding people towards beauty.
Since being recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2019, her biggest wish is to arouse the love of heritage in the hearts of the younger generation so that the song can be preserved and promoted.
Going up to the Ha Giang rocky plateau, along the Gam River bank (Bac Me), the silver carving profession of the Dao and H'Mong people brings a different vitality. For artisan Bon Van Dau, each silver product is not only a jewelry but also contains the quintessence of the clan's culture.
To complete a sophisticated necklace set, the craftsman must meticulously cast and chisel for 10 days and nights. Although the traditional craft is no longer as prosperous as before, he still diligently works with the chisel hammer with burning passion, hoping that the motifs expressing the desire for a prosperous and peaceful life will not be lost over time.
The persistence of artisans such as Mrs. My and Mr. Dau is the fulcrum for highland culture to retain its unique features. The support from local authorities today not only helps preserve heritage but also opens up sustainable tourism development directions, so that the traditional values of the Northwest can continue to be promoted.
