The traditional bamboo and rattan weaving village of Ngoc Dong - Cultural Beauty of Ha Nam
When mentioning Ha Nam, people not only think of its historical relics and famous landscapes but also remember its longstanding traditional craft villages, contributing to the unique cultural identity of this land. Among them, Ngoc Dong village in Hoang Dong commune, Duy Tien district, Ha Nam province, is renowned for its traditional craft of bamboo and rattan weaving. Let's delve into this traditional craft village to explore more!
I. Historical development and extraordinary breakthroughs
Ngoc Dong village, located in Hoang Dong commune, Duy Tien district, Ha Nam province, is famous for its traditional craft of bamboo and rattan weaving. Over the years, the village has specialized in producing various products ranging from decorative items to furniture made from bamboo and rattan. Interestingly, the bamboo furniture set at President Ho Chi Minh's stilt house was also made and presented by the people of Ngoc Dong village.
Since its establishment in the 1980s, the initial production group was formed to address employment issues for local residents. Thanks to innovative approaches to product development, in just over a decade, Ngoc Dong bamboo and rattan weaving has evolved into a large company exporting its products internationally. The villagers have a deep-rooted attachment to weaving since childhood. When mentioning "traditional bamboo and rattan weaving villages," Ngoc Dong is always at the forefront, where people are dedicated to their craft, regardless of the decline of many other craft villages. The bamboo and rattan products here are also a source of pride for each resident of Ngoc Dong.
Initially, the main products of the village were bamboo chairs. However, upon their launch, these products quickly gained widespread support for their beautiful designs and suitability for the tropical climate. The fame of Ngoc Dong craft village continues to spread, attracting more buyers and sellers alike.
Like other craft villages, Ngoc Dong bamboo and rattan weaving village has faced numerous challenges in adapting to changing economic mechanisms. Nevertheless, the village artisans have endeavored to find ways to improve product quality and ensure sustainable development. Thanks to these efforts, the craft village has remained strong and continues to thrive. In 2004, Ngoc Dong bamboo and rattan weaving village was recognized as a traditional craft village by the Ha Nam People's Committee, honoring three artisans and ten craftsmen for their contributions to the village's development.
II. Unique features of Ngoc Dong bamboo and rattan weaving village
Residents of Ngoc Dong village share that the primary raw materials for their craft are bamboo and rattan. They have developed a diverse range of products such as bowls, plates, vases, trays, etc. Despite the small-scale production by individual households, production is organized collaboratively to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. Households divide tasks to expedite production schedules and streamline costs. Subsequently, finished products are collected and delivered to consumers. This streamlined production process helps villagers save time and increase production efficiency.
III. Contribution to the local community
Ngoc Dong bamboo and rattan weaving village is a primary source of income for local residents, contributing significantly to the socioeconomic development of the area. The village has provided employment for many laborers, especially women, helping them improve their material and spiritual lives. The village has preserved and promoted the traditional cultural identity of the ethnic community. Visitors to the village not only observe the production process and learn about traditional weaving techniques but also have the opportunity to purchase exquisite and unique bamboo and rattan products. Ngoc Dong village promises to offer tourists interesting and memorable cultural experiences.