VIENTIANE: A grand event has been held in Lao capital Vientiane to celebrate the recognition of Laos’ traditional craft of Naga motif weaving by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity.
The event, held from June 6 to 9, showcased the Naga motif in Laos through displays, a fashion show featuring the traditional Lao skirt sinh adorned with the motif, as well as performances of songs and traditional Lao dance, as reported by Lao National Radio on Sunday.
The Naga motif weaving enjoys a special position in Laos, being highly esteemed and unique. It is a product of creativity, reverence, and meticulous craftsmanship, reflecting the intertwining of such elements in the daily lives of the Lao people. The intricate process of weaving a single motif can span several days.
Lao textiles serve as a medium for visual storytelling, skillfully incorporating symbols and motifs inspired by legendary creatures and natural images. These elements not only add aesthetic value but also convey information about an individual’s background, marital status, and ethnic heritage.
The Naga is a mythical, serpent-like creature that lives in rivers. Lao people believe that Naga are ancestors that watch over them.
In February 2024, the Lao Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism received a certificate from UNESCO over the Lao traditional Naga motif weaving after the latter’s official inscription of the textile pattern on its representative list of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity in 2023.
