Tubujia Xieqin Dance in Namling County, Shigatse

The Tubujia Xieqin Dance (南木林土布加谐钦) is a traditional folk dance from Namling County (南木林县) in Shigatse (日喀则), Tibet. It has been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage and is one of the key cultural expressions of the region. The dance has a history spanning over 100 years and is primarily performed during grand events or celebratory occasions, particularly in honor of religious figures and important community celebrations.

  • Heritage Level: National Intangible Cultural Heritage

  • Heritage Category: Traditional Dance

  • Declared Area: Namling County, Shigatse, Tibet

  • Approved Date: June 7, 2008

  • Heritage ID: III-83

Historical Origins

The Creation of Tubujia Xieqin

The Tubujia Xieqin (土布加谐钦) is also known as “Cijiu Xieqin” (次久谐钦), referring to the Tibetan Calendar’s 10th day of the first month. It was established by the 8th Panchen Lama, Danbe Wangqiu (八世班禅丹贝旺秋), and is part of the grand welcoming and farewell ceremonies held along the route to Tashilhunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺) during the Panchen Lama’s travels. This dance form has been passed down through generations in Namling County and surrounding areas in Shigatse.

Dance Features

A Cultural Expression of Tibetan Life

Tubujia Xieqin focuses on a combination of song and dance. The lyrics feature a variety of content, ranging from classic literary poetry to folk ballads, providing a vibrant display of Tibetan culture. The dance is highly structured, with distinct sections that follow specific melodies, gestures, rhythms, and speeds. The costumes, worn by both men and women, reflect the deep Tibetan cultural heritage, providing a visual impact with strong ethnic motifs.

Performance Themes

The Tubujia Xieqin is typically performed during special occasions, such as religious festivals and important Tibetan holidays. The dance and song express wishes for good harvests, favorable weather, and overall well-being. The lyrics and melodies are rich and vibrant, contributing to a festive and energetic atmosphere.

The performance consists of 25 different songs, which vary in mood and intensity, designed to bring people together in celebration. The dance’s rhythms are energetic and synchronized, with performers exuding a sense of unity and joy, reflective of the Tibetan community’s spirit.

Cultural Preservation

The Value of Tubujia Xieqin

The Tubujia Xieqin is a treasure of Tibetan folk wisdom, rich with artistic value. It offers crucial insight into the religious, cultural, and aesthetic history of Tibet. The dance is a vital part of the study of Tibetan culture, and preserving it will deepen the understanding of Tibetan history and contribute to the research of Tibetan religion and folklore. Additionally, it will promote the coordinated development of both traditional culture and economic progress in Namling County.

Status of Preservation

Unfortunately, the Tubujia Xieqin is currently endangered, with a lack of new practitioners and a pressing need for conservation efforts to ensure the dance’s survival for future generations.

Key Figures in Preservation

Tsering Wangdu (次旺丹增), born in 1938, is a prominent figure in the dance’s preservation. He is recognized as a representative inheritor of the Tubujia Xieqin Dance. Wangdu has dedicated his life to studying and preserving this traditional dance form, ensuring its transmission to younger generations.

Conservation Measures

In October 2023, the Namling County Cultural and Tourism Bureau (南木林县文化和旅游局) was officially recognized for its efforts in the protection and promotion of the Tubujia Xieqin Dance, as part of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage initiative.

Social Impact

Notable Events and Performances

In October 2010, the first-ever Tubujia Xieqin Cultural and Art Festival was held in Namling County. The festival showcased the cultural significance of the dance and its role in the community.

In 2012, during the Tibetan New Year Celebration, the Namling Tubujia Xieqin Folk Art Troupe performed the “Golden Xieqin” (金色谐钦) at the Shigatse cultural event, further increasing the dance’s visibility.