Culture
23:05, 01-May-2018
Get down and dirty! China’s Wa ethnic minority enjoy muddy day during May holiday
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Tired of the crowded tourist spots during the annual May Day holiday in China? Do you want to experience something different? How about taking a dip in massive mud pile?
A crazy idea! But that’s how people in southwest China’s Yunnan Province, home to the country’s 25 ethnic minorities, have fun in a unique way.
A muddy man takes pictures while participating in the “Monihei” Carnival. The “mud” is made of bark and local herbs, among other materials. /Courtesy of Douhairong
A muddy man takes pictures while participating in the “Monihei” Carnival. The “mud” is made of bark and local herbs, among other materials. /Courtesy of Douhairong
The annual “Monihei” Carnival is held from April 30 to May 1 in Cangyuan County in the city of Lincang. During the hilarious celebration, people will smear one another with “mud,” as if they are splashing water to each other during the water-splashing festival celebrated by the Dai people.
“Monihei” literally means “make you black.” It is a festival celebrated by the Wa people.
Wa is an age-old minority inhabiting in Yunnan Province, who are known for their bravery and diligence. Bordering on Myanmar, Cangyuan is one of the only two Wa autonomous counties in China.
Traditionally, Wa people would smear the mixture of potash, oxblood and mud on the faces to expel the evil spirit and pray for peace. Today, however, it is a mixture of barks and local herbs.
People from different areas revel during the annual “Monihei” Carnival. According to the tradition of Wa people, the muddier you get, the more you'll be blessed. /courtesy of Dou Hairong
People from different areas revel during the annual “Monihei” Carnival. According to the tradition of Wa people, the muddier you get, the more you'll be blessed. /courtesy of Dou Hairong
A participant told CGTN, “It looks dirty but it actually feels cool and smells nice, and it can be easily washed away.”
Being dark is seen as a sign of beauty for Wa people, who think it means hard-working and healthy.
According to local customs, the muddier you get, the more you'll be blessed in the coming year. The local people think that women will be more beautiful after getting muddy and the elderly will enjoy longevity. For the children, they will grow up healthier and happier.
Young women of the Was perform a traditional dance before the carnival starts. /Courtesy of Dou Hairong
Young women of the Was perform a traditional dance before the carnival starts. /Courtesy of Dou Hairong
Before the carnival started, Wa women perform a traditional dance, swinging their long hair and dancing – a typical and popular art form.
During the two-day event, some other traditional activities are also held, such as bullfight.