Hat Then, an essential ritual in the spiritual cultural life of Tay and Nung - Photo : Cao Bang Tourism
In the heart of the mountainous landscapes of
Bac Kan, resonate the echoes of ancestral traditions: Hat Then and Dan Tinh, major cultural expressions of the Tay, Nung, and Thai peoples.
Hat Then: A spiritual chant
A folk and traditional art of remarkable vitality in the Bac Kan province, Hat Then is considered one of the oldest forms of artistic expression of the Tay, Nung, and Thai peoples.
Its origins lie deep within their animistic beliefs and their vision of the spiritual world, and this chant is intimately linked to the spiritual and cultural life of local communities.
It is central to important ceremonies, whether they are rites of prayer for peace, invocations for an abundant harvest, or celebrations of health and happiness.
The term "Then" translates to "Thien," meaning "God," and Then chants are considered sacred melodies, vectors of communication with the divine during these solemn ceremonies.
In this ritual, the singer, often a revered shaman called "thầy Then" ("Then" master, though it can be a woman), enters into communion with the spirits.
Leading an army of soldiers from earth to heaven with offerings to the gods, their voice rises to seek protection and blessings, accompanied by the soft and melodious sound of the dan tinh, a traditional stringed instrument whose sound box is made from a gourd.
Depending on the purpose of the prayer, the master will make different offerings and prayers in front of the altar.
They use an exorcism sword, bells, and other ritual objects to perform the "Then" ceremony.
They are usually dressed in ceremonial attire and sing in their ethnic language. A Then master performs about 200 ceremonies a year.
A Then Master - Photo : Bao Van Hoa
Hat Then comes in various regional variations.
In Bac Kan, it is often characterized by a murmured narration that unfolds a rich array of stories.
These narratives can be rooted in ancient times, evoking legends and folktales, or reflect contemporary themes such as daily life, love, nature, and even celebrate the achievements of modern society and national policies.
Preservation and dynamism of a living tradition
Recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity since 2019, the Then heritage receives special attention in Bac Kan.
Dedicated clubs play a key role in the preservation and promotion of this tradition.
Through the regular organization of cultural exchanges, courses for young people, and public performances, they help ensure the continuity of the practice of Then within the community.
This commitment is evident in all the villages of the province, particularly in the districts of Cho Don, Na Ri, Bach Thong, and in the city of Bac Kan.
The adaptability of Hat Then is one of the keys to its longevity.
The songs are frequently enriched with modern lyrics that reflect current social and political aspirations, thus infusing this tradition with constant relevance and dynamism.
Having become a popular form of artistic expression, Then singing is featured on stages, in local festivals (such as the spring festival in Ba Be), and in tourist events.
Its regular presence in local media reinforces its visibility and accessibility.
The future of Hat Then & Dan Tinh is assured! Photo: Cao Bang TourismDan Tinh: The musical companion of Hat Then
The Dan Tinh is an instrument as old as the Hat Then, and the two are inextricably linked.
This unique folk instrument of the Tay, with its soft and warm sound, is an essential element of the region's musical identity.
It is a zither, traditionally composed of 2 to 3 strings. However, master craftsmen, such as Nghe Nhan Duong Van Thuc in Bac Kan, have created bold variations with up to 12 strings, offering increased sonic richness.
The sound box of the Dan Tinh, traditionally made from a dried gourd shell or a wooden box, and its long mulberry neck, testify to its rural origins and its close connection with the environment.
Cultural clubs, such as the one in Nam Mau commune in the
Ba Be district, bring together enthusiasts and younger generations for learning and practicing Then singing and playing the Dan Tinh.
These initiatives play a crucial role in safeguarding and promoting this precious heritage.
The Ba Be Spring Festival, held on the 10th lunar day of January in Bo Lu village, is a major event where Hat Then and Dan Tinh are celebrated with fervor, through ceremonies and traditional games.
1,000 people singing Hat Then and played Dan Tinh at Ban Gioc waterfall, 2023 - Photo : Cao Bang TourismA precious cultural heritage
Through Hat Then and Dan Tinh, we are offered a journey into the heart of the cultural soul of Bac Kan, an invitation to discover and appreciate the richness and depth of this intangible heritage.