Overview of the Lu People
The Lu are a small ethnic minority in Vietnam, with a population of 6,757 according to the 2019 survey of 53 ethnic minorities. They mainly reside in Lai Chau province, particularly in Tam Duong and Sin Ho districts, with a smaller presence in Dien Bien.
Researchers believe the Lu migrated from Yunnan, China, around the first millennium AD. They established a presence in the Xam Mun area before the 11th century. Their language belongs to the Tay-Thai group of the Kra-Dai family.
The Black Teeth Staining Custom
Traditional Significance
Historically, Lu men practiced teeth blackening, along with tattooing, ear stretching, and wearing long beards. This was not merely cosmetic but signified maturity and readiness for social and marital life. Blackened teeth were a standard of beauty, distinguishing humans from animals and showcasing a man's strength and status.
Methods
The Lu used natural resins or plant-based charcoal mixed with other ingredients. The process required patience and multiple applications to achieve a durable black color. Experienced community members typically performed the procedure to ensure safety.
Decline of the Practice
Today, this custom has largely disappeared due to cultural exchange and changing aesthetic ideals. Younger generations no longer maintain the practice, viewing white teeth as the new standard. However, it remains an important cultural memory, illustrating the community's adaptation to modern times.
Other Distinctive Cultural Traits
Traditional Clothing
Lu women are known for their hand-woven, intricately embroidered attire, including headscarves, shirts, skirts, and jewelry. Headscarves are adorned with yellow beads and tassels. During festivals, older women wear long black dresses and white scarves around their necks.
Stilt Houses
The Lu live in stilt houses with thatched roofs that extend to cover the veranda and stairs. Unlike the Thai or Lao, their houses typically have a single main door facing northwest.
Polytheistic Beliefs
The Lu believe in a three-tiered universe: the sky world, the earth, and the underworld. They distinguish between benevolent spirits (ancestors, village guardians) and malevolent ones (spirits of those who died unnaturally). Ancestor worship is most important, performed annually in their first lunar month.
Folk Arts
Lu singing (Khap Lua) involves women covering their faces with red scarves while singing to the accompaniment of a double flute played by men. These sessions, held at night, serve as a space for young people to interact and express affection.
Economy and Social Structure
The Lu are skilled wet-rice farmers, using buffalo for plowing and constructing canals around fields. Their unique technique involves transplanting seedlings twice. Socially, each village is led by an elected chief and a council of elders, governed by unwritten customary laws.
Preserving Identity Today
The Lu in Lai Chau continue to preserve their cultural values, including weaving, basketry, and silversmithing. While teeth blackening has faded, understanding this practice offers insight into the rich heritage of this distinct community.
