Songlong (Dragon Worship) Festival of Dai Ethnic Minority
Introduction of The Festival
- Chinese Name: 傣族送龙节
- English Name: Songlong (Dragon Worship) Festival of Dai Ethnic Minority
The Long Sending Festival is a unique celebration of the Dai people in Menglong, Xishuangbanna. It is held during prosperous times, when the crops are abundant and life is flourishing. The term “sending the dragon” refers to presenting offerings to the Dragon God, symbolizing a request for blessings and care from the Dragon God, which in turn brings good fortune. Therefore, this festival serves as a way to express gratitude to the Dragon God.
Typically, the Long Sending Festival takes place in January of the Gregorian calendar, before the Spring Festival, and is organized by the local Buddhists. Each household participates by offering various items: some provide food, while others contribute clothing, and wealthier families may offer gold and silver jewelry, coins, or blankets. Everyone is welcome to join, and there are few restrictions for outsiders.
After all kinds of offerings are brought to the Buddhist temple, the temple organizes skilled artisans to craft a “Dragon Palace.” The local Buddhist priest conducts prayers and rituals, placing the gifts from each household atop the “Dragon Palace.” All participants in the ceremony beat gongs and drums as the “Dragon Palace” is carried to the Menglong River. Following another ritual, the “Dragon Palace” is placed on a bamboo raft, which then drifts away while surrounded by prayers and chants, symbolizing the act of “sending” these offerings to the Dragon God.
The Local Activities of The Festival
- Preparation and Offerings: In the days leading up to the festival, families prepare various offerings, which may include food, clothing, and other goods. These items are meant to honor the Dragon God and express gratitude for past blessings. Wealthier families often prepare more elaborate offerings such as jewelry and crafted goods.
- Dragon Palace Construction: Local artisans gather to build a ceremonial structure known as the “Dragon Palace.” This intricately crafted representation serves as the focal point for the worship and is adorned with offerings brought by the community.
- Procession to the River: On the day of the festival, participants don traditional attire and join in a joyous procession, often accompanied by music from traditional instruments, dancing, and singing. The procession typically moves through the village, leading to the local river.
- Rituals and Prayers: Upon reaching the river, the community gathers around the Dragon Palace. The local Buddhist monk or elder conducts prayers and rituals, invoking the blessings of the Dragon God. This may include chanting and the ringing of bells and gongs, calling for protection and prosperity for the village.
- Placement of Offerings: The prepared offerings are then placed on the Dragon Palace. Following the rituals, the community participates in a ceremony where the Dragon Palace is decorated with the offerings, symbolizing the community’s wishes and gratitude.
- Drifting the Dragon Palace: After the ceremonies, the Dragon Palace is placed on a bamboo raft. The raft is blessed and then released into the river, signifying the act of sending offerings to the Dragon God. As the raft drifts away, community members chant and pray, wishing for good fortune and a plentiful harvest.
- Celebratory Activities: The festival is filled with celebratory activities, including traditional music, dance performances, and local games. It’s a time for socializing, with families and friends coming together to enjoy food, laughter, and camaraderie.
- Culinary Traditions: Traditional dishes, often prepared for communal sharing, play a significant role during the festival. Special meals featuring local ingredients engage everyone in the spirit of hospitality and community.
