Sonam Ciren- Inheritor of Naru Xieqin Dance in Chengguan District, Lhasa, Tibet
Sonam Ciren (索朗次仁), born in December 1949, is the representative inheritor of the Naru Xieqin Dance (拉萨纳如谐钦) in Chengguan District (城关区), Lhasa (拉萨), Tibet. As a passionate promoter of this traditional Tibetan dance, Sonam Ciren has dedicated his life to preserving and passing on the cultural heritage of the Xieqin dance, which plays a significant role in the celebration of Tibetan customs and daily life.
Historical Origins of Naru Xieqin Dance
The Naru Xieqin Dance has deep historical roots in Tibet, believed to have originated during the 7th century under the Tubo Dynasty (吐蕃王朝). The dance is said to have begun when the people of the Yarlung Tribe (雅砻部落) mimicked the sound of horse neighs while lifting their leader, Niedi Zampu (聂赤赞普), on their shoulders, gradually evolving into the dance form we recognize today.
Cultural Significance
Naru Xieqin Dance embodies traditional Tibetan ceremonial customs, focusing on the Tibetan people’s reverence for their leaders and their connection to nature and the secular world. The dance combines poetry, music, and movement, and it has become an integral part of Tibetan festivals and celebrations.
Key Features of Naru Xieqin Dance
Dance Structure and Performance
The Naru Xieqin Dance is known for its acapella style, where performers sing, narrate, and dance without musical accompaniment. The structure is divided into slow and fast sections, with the performance beginning and ending with two distinct melodies known as “Xieguo” (谐果) and “Zashi” (扎西), respectively.
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Performance Elements: The dance includes chanting, narration, and choreographed movements, which involve intricate hand gestures that synchronize with the lyrics.
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Roles in Performance: There are male and female singers, with 32 performers in total (half male and half female) participating in performances, usually during festive occasions. One male and one female Xieben (谐本) lead the dance, guiding the performers through the movements.
Adaptability
The dance’s content is flexible and can adapt to the environment and context of the performance. It celebrates life, love, and the pursuit of a beautiful life through its movements, capturing the joy and elegance of Tibetan culture.
Sonam Ciren’s Contribution to Naru Xieqin Dance
Sonam Ciren has dedicated his life to the preservation and development of the Naru Xieqin Dance. Since his childhood, he has been passionate about folk dance and began his involvement with Naru Xieqin from an early age. Between 1968 and 1974, he participated in local art troupes and has since become a leading figure in the promotion of the dance.
Promoting and Teaching the Art
Sonam Ciren has been instrumental in training the next generation of dancers and has formed several troupes that have participated in various performances, winning numerous awards. He is widely regarded by the local community as the face of Naru Xieqin Dance.
In 2008, Naru Xieqin Dance was officially recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage of China. Under his guidance, the project has continued to thrive and has been evaluated by the Lhasa Cultural Bureau in 2023 as a successful preservation initiative.
Social and Cultural Impact
The Naru Xieqin Dance has a significant role in the Tibetan cultural landscape, with its performances serving as a reminder of Tibetan traditions and rituals. The dance is not only a form of artistic expression but also an important cultural connector, bringing communities together during important festivals such as Lhasa’s New Year celebrations and other significant local events.
Influence on Tibetan Arts
Sonam Ciren’s work in preserving and promoting Naru Xieqin Dance has helped raise awareness of Tibetan intangible cultural heritage. His active involvement in teaching and performance has kept the art form alive, ensuring its continued relevance for future generations.
