Mountain Pilgrimage Festival of Pumi Ethnic Minority
Introduction of the Festival
- Chinese Name:普米族转山节
- English Name: Mountain Pilgrimage Festival of Pumi Ethnic Minority
Mountain Pilgrimage Festival(转山节) is an activity of offering sacrifices to the mountain god on July 15th of the lunar calendar. Each and everyone of Pumi in groups to the village as a unit, to participate in various activities on the designated mountain.Mountain Pilgrimage Festival is a festival of Pumi and Mosuo people in Yongning Town(永宁乡) of Ninglang County(宁蒗县). Mountain Pilgrimage Festival comes from a legend.It is said that the Pumi Ethnic Minority was in charge of different mountain gods long ago.On July 15th of the lunar calendar,the mountain gods would go to a place to compete.One of the sports is to determine the territory by betting on winning or losing.If the bet is lost,the people there will suffer a disaster.
Once,the mountain god of the Pumi region lost the bet,all of the people ,animals and crops were seriously affected.Since then ,on this day,Punmi ancestors will bring sacrificial articles to the top of the mountain to pray,wish mountain god victory and return,bring good luck and health for the people.During the festival,people bring abundant food,wear gorgeous costumes,ride horses or walk to the nearby mountains to race horses,have a picnic,and burn incense to worship the mountain gods.
Local Activities of the Festival
1. Pilgrimage to Sacred Sites
- The festival involves a communal pilgrimage to nearby sacred mountains or revered natural sites. Participants walk to these locations, often carrying offerings such as food, incense, and symbolic items meant for ritual purposes.
2. Ritual Offerings
- Upon reaching the sacred site, rituals are performed that include offering food, rice wine, incense, and other items to local deities or ancestral spirits. This act is meant to show respect, seek blessings, and express gratitude for past harvests and protection for the future.
3. Prayer Ceremonies
- Ritual prayers are conducted, usually led by village elders or spiritual leaders, who invoke blessings for health, prosperity, and peace. These ceremonies involve chanting and may include the use of traditional musical instruments.
4. Cultural Performances
- The festival showcases Pumi culture through music and dance. Folk songs and traditional dances are performed, often reflecting the mythology, history, and daily life of the Pumi people. This is a time for cultural expression and celebration of their heritage.
5. Community Feasting
- After the rituals, participants gather for communal meals, where traditional Pumi foods are shared. This fosters a sense of community and solidarity as families come together to break bread and enjoy one another’s company.
6. Games and Competitions
- Various traditional games and competitions are organized for participants of all ages. Activities may include races, tug-of-war, and other local games designed to promote camaraderie and enjoyment within the community.
7. Nature Appreciation and Activities
- As part of the festival, there may be hiking or nature walks to appreciate the beauty of the mountains. This fosters a connection to the environment and encourages a spirit of conservation among participants.
8. Arts and Crafts Fair
- Some festivals include a display of local handicrafts and artistic works, allowing artisans to showcase their skills. This not only promotes local culture but also provides opportunities for economic exchange.
9. Veneration of Ancestors
- Special moments are dedicated to remember and honor ancestors. Stories about past generations are shared, reinforcing family ties and cultural continuity.
10. Educational Activities
- In some cases, workshops or discussions related to traditional practices, environmental stewardship, or folklore may be organized, promoting cultural education and awareness among younger generations.
