VietNamNet Bridge – ‘Neu’ pole erecting ritual and ‘Gu’ worshipping objects of the Cor ethnic minority group in Bac Tra My District, Quang Nam Province were announced as national intangible cultural heritages on August 3.

A set of Gu worshipping objects hung in the middle of the house of Cor people (Photo: VNA)

The 'Neu' pole and 'Gu' objects are spiritual symbols playing a very important role in the major festivals of Cor people, including harvest prayers as well as ancestor and god worshipping.

There are three types of 'Neu' pole to commemorate three different groups: ancestors; gods of the river and mountain; and gods of the sky, soil and water.

A 'Neu' pole has an average height of five to nine metres and is decorated with patterns and accessories. Each one is distinguished by a mascot pinned on the top of the pole, which represents the importance of the god in the ceremony.

As it is the most significant part of Cor people’s festivals, the preparation of 'Neu' pole is made carefully and often lasts for months ahead of the festivals, with the participant of experienced locals.

When preparations for the festival are completed, a good day is selected for a ceremony in which people ask for permission to erect the 'Neu' pole and invite their ancestors and the gods to attend the festival.

While the 'Neu' pole is the most indispensable part of the outdoor ritual of Cor people, 'Gu' worshipping objects are the highlight of their indoor ceremonies. The wooden objects are classified into four types, hanging in four places: in the middle of the house, the entrance, the door to the kitchen and in the middle of the kitchen.

A 'Gu' object is a unique object presenting the talent of Cor people as well as their view of the gods, the universe and their beliefs.

According to the latest census, the Cor ethnic group in Vietnam has a population of nearly 39,000, living in 25 cities and provinces across the country. Quang Nam Province is now home to over 5,300 Cor people - most of them are residing in Bac Tra My and Nam Tra My districts.

Cor people have many unique cultural practices and are aware of safeguarding their cultural and spiritual treasures.

Nhan Dan