Jinghpaw tribal chiefs leading the Manau celebration in Shatapru quarter at the Kachin Baptist Church’s 50th anniversary, Myitkyina.
The Jinghpaw people, also known in Myanmar as Kachin, used to celebrate Manaw around February. Villagers from different places recognize each other by the shapes and patterns of their costumes, especially the headgears, typically made of boar tusks, hornbill heads (carved in wood) and peacock feathers. Men carry swords, and women different accessories ( fans or handkerchiefs ). tribal chiefs take the lead of an extremely long procession, lasting for hours, where people, village after village, follow each other for a crazy dance that takes the form of a giant spiral. The Jinghpaw ethnic group lives on both sides of the border between China and Myanmar. Although the Manau finds its roots in animist beliefs, it is celebrated by Christians today.