Illustrative photo.

Making the silk ball of Pao is not so sophisticated yet it requires makers’ patience and delicacy.

To make a beautiful rounded Pao, Mong women must first collect fabrics and linen strings. The piece of cloth is cut into strips and then rolled into a sphere. After that, they tie the linen string around the Pao until it is round and fist-sized. Finally, layers of silk cloth are used to cover the fabric sphere.

All the procedures are made only by hands.

The folk game of Pao throwing is often held at a vast area. The game is participated by either male–female or female-female couples.

During festivals, couples with the feeling for each other often join in the game. After the game, if a man is interested in his game partner, he may keep the silk ball with him, making it a symbol for love.

Despite where they live, Mong people always regard the folk game of Pao throwing as a distinctive cultural value that needs preserving.

Source: VNA