Rumiqi Festival of Nu Ethnic Minority in Nujiang
Nu nationality is the oldest ancestor and developer on both sides of the Nu River. Like other nationalities, the Nu people have their own unique customs and cultural heritage. They are a pure, kind, hospitable, and musically and lyrically talented people. In the process of opening up the Nu River land, they have fought against nature with extraordinary perseverance and courage, using their intelligence, wisdom, and even their lives to gain possession of this land. According to the Nu people’s 64-generation oral tradition, the Nu people have been living and multiplying on this land for about 1,700 years. In this 1,700-year history of entrepreneurship, they have experienced generations of hardships and struggles against nature. The Nu people’s “Miqi” activity has evolved and developed over the long process of struggling with nature.
- Date: March 6
- Place: Nujiang Prefecture, Yunnan Province
- Chinese Name: 怒族如密期/开春节
- English Name: Rumiqi (Kaichun) Festival of the Nu Ethnic Minority
Background and Significance
The Nu ethnic group, one of the oldest inhabitants of the Nu River valley, has a rich cultural heritage and unique traditions. As the earliest settlers on both sides of the Nu River, the Nu people have developed a deep connection with the land, overcoming natural challenges with remarkable perseverance, wisdom, and even sacrifice. According to oral traditions spanning 64 generations, the Nu people have lived in the region for approximately 1,700 years, during which they have cultivated a strong sense of community and resilience.
The word “Rumiqi” in the Nu language can be translated as “all the villages act to exorcise.” Specifically, “Rumi” means “village,” and “Miqi” signifies the act of cleansing or washing away evil spirits. The festival originated in response to a series of natural and man-made disasters that once plagued the Nu people. Unable to withstand these calamities, they turned to their gods for help, praying for relief from disasters, protection, and blessings. Through the “Miqi” ritual, they sought to ensure timely rain, bountiful harvests, thriving livestock, family harmony, and good fortune.
The Legend of Rumiqi
The Rumiqi Festival is traditionally held on March 6, just before the start of spring plowing. This date is rooted in a legend that tells of a special bird that visits the village each year on this day. The bird perches on a walnut tree and sings a beautiful song in a language that resembles the word “Rumi,” signaling the arrival of spring and the time for the festival.
Evolution of the Rumiqi Festival
Over time, the original “Miqi” ritual has undergone significant changes in both content and form, evolving into what is now known as the “Kaichun” or Spring Festival. Today, due to various factors, many Nu villages no longer perform the traditional “Miqi” activities. However, the essence of the festival remains, celebrating the arrival of spring, the promise of a new agricultural season, and the joy of community life.
The modern Rumiqi Festival serves as a vibrant cultural event, promoting ethnic traditions, fostering community bonds, and celebrating the hard work and prosperity of the Nu people. Through this festival, participants engage in cultural activities that express their gratitude, share ideas, strengthen emotional connections, and celebrate the rich heritage of the Nu ethnic group.
