Quáng (Dao Đỏ)
2019 10m 4K 1.85
Heritage Shorts #2
In the second of a new series of short films from Heritage Centre Sapa in association with Open Cinematic, we meet Lý Phụ Quáng of the Dao Đỏ in Tả Phìn village. With a total population of nearly 900,000 in Vietnam, the Dao (also referred to as the Yao or Mien) live predominantly in the northern mountainous provinces having migrated south from China during the 18th century. The Dao are widely considered mountain people with a deep connection to the forest.
Through the centuries, the Dao have managed to maintain their cultural identity while adapting to new environments. Each Dao subgroup is easily identifiable by their costumes which vary widely but are characterised by the inclusion of intricate embroidery. In the past, the Dao have been able to produce everything required for their everyday needs. In this regard, they demonstrate much ingenuity, remarkable craftsmanship and a unique artistic sense.
Protected by vicious thorns, rattan is a remarkable tropical climbing palm which yields many products for the Dao. The long, spiny, jointed stems are thin and pliable and used to make furniture, baskets and cord. It is also collected and prepared for use as a bowstring in a tradition Dao crossbow.
From a strand of rattan, the skin is peeled off and twisted for use in weaving. Once twisted, it becomes strong and makes cord ideal for use as a bowstring. The remaining core of the rattan can be used in various applications because it is lightweight, durable, and to a certain extent flexible.
Rattan harvesting provides an alternative to logging timber in areas where forests are scarce. Rattan grows best under tree cover and therefore planting indirectly helps to protect native forests.
Rattan leaves are used to wrap and steam bánh nhọn (rice dumplings) adding a subtle, aromatic flavour to sticky rice. Rattan fruit meanwhile, stimulates both sweet and sour sensations on the tongue giving the fruit a zingy tang that is initially shocking, akin to citrus. The fruit has a snakeskin like appearance while the inside contains two large seeds and a fleshy edible pulp. The Dao juice the fruit and store the liquid, which keeps for many years. It is frequently used as a dressing to banana blossom salads.
