On July 7, information from the People's Committee of Nghe An province said that the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has just issued Decision 2192 to include the "Thunder Welcoming Ceremony of the O Du people" in Nga My commune, Tuong Duong district (old), Nghe An province in the National Intangible Cultural Heritage List, belonging to the type of social and religious practices.
According to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, this festival bears the imprint of ethnic culture, reflecting the close relationship between the O Du community with nature and traditional farming life. This is an important ceremony, held at the beginning of the rainy season to pray for a good harvest, fresh livestock, and a full life.
The Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism assigned the Chairmen of the People's Committees at all levels in the localities where the heritage is located to coordinate in organizing the management, protection and promotion of heritage values according to the provisions of the law on cultural heritage. The decision takes effect from the date of signing and promulgation.
The O Du people are one of the few ethnic groups in Vietnam, mainly residing in Tuong Duong district, Nghe An province, with a population of about more than 1,000 people. The O Du people have their own language, unique folk culture and life closely associated with the Truong Son mountain forest.