Mongol Biyelgee, Mongolian traditional folk dance
Title
Mongol Biyelgee, Mongolian traditional folk dance
Alternative Title
Монгол бий биелгээ, уламжлалт бүжгийн урлаг
Publication Type
Language
mon
eng
Location
Mongolia
Keywords
Bii biyelgee
Folk dance
Nomads
Festive events
Ethnic groups
Relevance to ICH Safeguarding
ICH Genre
Description
Inscribed in 2009 on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding. The Mongol Biyelgee—Mongolian Traditional Folk Dance—is performed by dancers from different ethnic groups in the Khovd and Uvs provinces of Mongolia. Regarded as the original forebear of Mongolian national dances, Biyelgee dances embody and originate from the nomadic way of life. Biyelgee dances are typically confined to the small space inside the ger (nomadic dwelling) and are performed while half sitting or cross-legged. Hand, shoulder, and leg movements express aspects of Mongol lifestyle, including household labour, customs and traditions, as well as spiritual characteristics tied to different ethnic groups. The dances play a significant role in family and community events such as feasts, celebrations, weddings, and labour-related practices, simultaneously expressing distinct ethnic identities and promoting family unity and mutual understanding among different Mongolian ethnic groups.
Publisher
National Center for Cultural Heritage
Place of Publication
Mongolia
Date of Publication
2022
Academic Field
heritage management
Community/Ethnic Group
Mongolia
Active Contribution
Mongolia, FY 2024