Within the framework of the New Rice Festival of ethnic groups in Ngoc Chien commune, on the morning of August 31, the " Thousand-prince" contest was held, attracting a large number of people and tourists to participate in the cheering.
The contest has the participation of 17 large, strong buffaloes selected from livestock farming households in 13 villages in Ngoc Chien commune.
The buffaloes were carefully cared for, big and strong, with shiny skin, one after another, entering the stage to compete amid the cheers of the audience.
Mr. Giang A Lau, Long Cang village shared that buffaloes allowed to compete must be carefully cared for, fed in moderation, bathed regularly and trained to avoid aggression and beatings. The buffalo participating in the competition must be 3 years old or older.
Mr. Bui Tien Sy - Deputy Secretary of the Ngoc Chien Commune Party Committee said that the contest is not only a festival for ethnic minorities but also encourages agricultural development. The strong buffaloes were selected to compete, to honor the labor force and the beauty of the livestock culture of the people in the highlands.
Before the event, the Organizing Committee performed a buffalo worship ceremony. This is a ceremony bearing the cultural imprint of the rice-growing economy. The offerings include chicken, sticky rice, wine, betel and traditional items, and were worshipped by priests asking for the god's protection to keep the buffalo healthy and have a favorable crop.
According to coach Lieu Van Thinh, buffalo venom offering has been a tradition of the villages for many generations. After the rice harvest season, the villages will hold a ceremony to thank and keep buffalo venom, to avoid fierce animals eating meat when going to the grazing land.
This year, the title of "buffalo prince" belongs to Mr. Ca Van On's family in Muong Chien 2 village, the "buffalo prince" in 2025 is 1m58 tall, has a chest of 2m35, and weighs 997kg.
Ms. Nguyen Minh Trang, a tourist from Hanoi, shared, I was really surprised, I had never seen such a unique contest. People love and respect buffaloes and turn them into competitions during the festival. This is a very interesting experience, helping me understand the culture of the highlands more".
The " buffalo prince" contest not only brings a joyful atmosphere, connecting the community but also contributes to promoting the image and attractive destinations in the Northwest highlands.
