As many of 30 photos and 166 items related to the custom of chewing Betal and Areca nuts by Vietnamese ethnic minority groups are on display at an exhibition which opened in Phan Rang City on October 21st.
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Artisans performed the custom of chewing Betal and Areca nuts |
The event is being held by the central Ninh Thuan Provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism in coordination with Ho Chi Minh city-based Southern Women Museum.
A quid of betel, also called trau, is composed of four elements: an areca leaf (sweet taste), betel bark (hot taste), a chay root (bitter taste), and hydrated lime (pungent taste). The custom of chewing betel nut is unique to Viet Nam.
A quid of betel makes people become closer and more openhearted. At any wedding ceremony or festival, there must be a dish of betel and areca nut, which people can share as they enjoy the special occasion. The exhibition will run until November 30th.