“Tung-jia”-a bracelet song and dance

“Tung”refers to the white conch which is one of the eight Tibetan treasures. The bracelet made of white conch implies auspiciousness and attracts wealth and treasure.”Jia”means dancing. Thus “Tung-jia”means ” songs and dances with conch and bracelet.””Tung-jia”is popular in Gyirong Township, Dzongkhar County in the west of Shigatse. It is uniquely characterized by the movements of the female performers knocking the white conch bracelets with the hands, light steps, and elegant and smooth singing in the Tsang area. It is one of the must-performed programs at religious festivals and folk activities.

“Tung-jia”is performed by female performers with one of them leading the singing and dancing. It starts with slow singing and graceful movements and then becomes faster to moderato and changes to allegro when the leading dancer shouts”Dier… Chia!”

With continuous shouting “Dier.. Chia!”the dance gradually reaches its climax and is concluded in a cheerful and warm atmosphere. Most of the lyrics are high praises to eminent monks of Bkav Brgyud Pa and the Nyingma Sect, beautiful scenery or best wishes.

qingquang

See author's posts