Xi Aniu – Inheritor of Naxi Dongba Culture in Shangri-la County, Diqing
Profile of Xi Aniu
Xi Aniu(习阿牛) is a Naxi ethnic Dongba culture inheritor from Sanba Township (三坝乡), Shangri-La City (香格里拉市), Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (迪庆藏族自治州). As one of the birthplaces of Naxi Dongba culture, Sanba Township (三坝乡) preserves rich traditions including:
- Dongba script
- Pictographic painting
- Ritual music
- Sacred dance
- Ceremonial practices
Dongba Cultural Heritage Background
The Dongba tradition represents:
- Ancient Naxi cultural system
- Preservation by Dongba priests (东巴)
- Rituals for blessings, exorcisms and worship
- Vital component of China’s intangible cultural heritage
Xi Aniu’s Preservation Work
As a certified inheritor, Xi Aniu dedicates himself to:
- Mastering traditional Dongba arts
- Conducting cultural transmission
- Training apprentices
- Organizing educational events
During the March 7, 2025 “Pilgrimage to White Water” (朝白水) festival, inheritors demonstrated:
- Dongba papermaking
- Ritual drum crafting
- Pictographic writing
- Scripture printing
The event allowed visitors to observe and participate in these national-level intangible cultural heritage techniques.
Significance of Cultural Inheritance
Dongba culture preservation:
- Strengthens Naxi ethnic identity
- Maintains social cohesion
- Serves as traditional moral education
- Protects cultural diversity
Through inheritors like Xi Aniu, this ancient tradition continues thriving in contemporary society. His work remains indispensable for safeguarding this unique cultural heritage.
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http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2688.html
