What is nguoi cham?

Nguoi Cham, also known as Cham people or Champa people, are an ethnic group that primarily dwells in Central Vietnam. They are descendants of the ancient Champa kingdom that has a strong Islamic influence. The population of Cham people in Vietnam is estimated to be around 161,000, with smaller communities in Cambodia and Laos.

The Cham people speak Cham language, which belongs to the Malayo-Polynesian language family. Their traditional religion is a blend of Hinduism and Islam, and they have mosques and temples where they worship.

The Cham people have a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional dances, music, crafts, and cuisine. The traditional dance of Cham people is called "Raglai," and it combines hand movements and body language with expressive facial expressions. They weave textiles, make pottery, and produce decorative items made of brass and bronze.

The Cham people have faced various challenges, including persecution, forced assimilation, and loss of autonomy. During French colonial rule, they were forced to give up their traditional attire and customs and adopt the Vietnamese way of life. However, they have managed to preserve their cultural identity despite facing such challenges. Today, the Cham people celebrate their cultural festivals such as Ramuwan and Waisak with great enthusiasm.