Penpa Ciren- Inheritor of Changguo Zhuowu Dance in Shannan, Tibet

Penpa Ciren (边巴次仁), born in March 1963 in Gongga (贡嘎), Tibet, is a celebrated inheritor of the Changguo Zhuowu Dance (山南昌果卓舞), a traditional Tibetan dance. As a representative inheritor of this national intangible cultural heritage, Penpa Ciren has made significant contributions to preserving and promoting the dance, ensuring its continued cultural relevance in modern Tibet.

Early Life and Training

Penpa Ciren was born into a Tibetan family in Gongga, a region in Tibet known for its rich cultural traditions. At the age of 23, he began his formal training in the Changguo Zhuowu Dance under the guidance of his teacher, Tsiren Dorji (次仁多吉). Over time, Penpa mastered all 18 movements of the dance and even introduced new variations to enrich the performance, making his contributions invaluable to the evolution of this traditional art form.

Contribution to the Changguo Zhuowu Dance

As the leader of the dance troupe, Penpa Ciren has played a pivotal role in leading numerous performances of the Changguo Zhuowu Dance at large-scale events organized by the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) (西藏自治区). His leadership and skill have made him a beloved figure among local communities, and his performances have been widely praised for their energy, precision, and cultural depth.

The Changguo Zhuowu Dance, known as “Guozhuang” (锅庄) in Chinese, is a traditional Tibetan circle dance, originally from the Dab (currently Gacha) (达布，现加查) region. This dance form is deeply rooted in Tibetan culture and is performed at various ceremonial and celebratory events, symbolizing unity and joy among the participants.

The Changguo Zhuowu Dance: A Unique Tibetan Tradition

The name “Guozhuang” (锅庄) refers to the dance’s circular formation, where participants move in synchronized patterns, creating a sense of unity and harmony. This form of dance is one of the most ancient and revered in Tibetan culture, holding a special place not only in Tibet but also among other ethnic groups and nations worldwide. The beauty of the dance, combined with its intricate movements, has made it a favorite among both locals and visitors alike.

Key Features of the Changguo Zhuowu Dance:

  • Circular Movement: The dance is typically performed in a circle, symbolizing unity, wholeness, and communal strength, key aspects of Tibetan society.

  • Waist Drums: Accompanying the dance are the rhythmic beats of waist drums, which infuse the performance with energy and spirit, creating a captivating atmosphere.

  • Cultural Significance: The Changguo Zhuowu Dance is performed during important cultural and religious events, often during festivals and ceremonies, where it reinforces the social fabric and spiritual connection of the community.

Recognition and Protection

In 2006, the Changguo Zhuowu Dance was officially listed as a national intangible cultural heritage item by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China (中华人民共和国国务院). This recognition marked an important step in ensuring the continued survival and promotion of the dance, safeguarding it for future generations. The dance was included in the first batch of national intangible cultural heritage listings, and it holds the heritage number: III-39.

Penpa Ciren’s role as an inheritor of this art form has been instrumental in its preservation. His dedication to passing down the traditional techniques of the dance to younger generations ensures that the cultural significance of the Changguo Zhuowu Dance will not fade away.

Legacy and Future of the Changguo Zhuowu Dance

Penpa Ciren’s contributions to the Changguo Zhuowu Dance go beyond performance. He has actively participated in the training and mentoring of new dancers, helping to pass on the unique artistry and cultural knowledge embedded in the dance. Under his leadership, the Changguo Zhuowu Dance continues to thrive and remains an important symbol of Tibetan cultural pride.

The continued recognition and protection of the Changguo Zhuowu Dance reflect its enduring importance as part of Tibet’s cultural heritage. Penpa Ciren’s work ensures that this vibrant tradition will continue to be celebrated and cherished by future generations, both within Tibet and around the world.