Not to be confused with the Kayan of Borneo, the Kayan, or Padaung, are another South East Asian Hill tribe with a rich tradition of fabric weaving. Descended from the same Tibetan ancestors as the Karen, Kayans settled in Burma, but military conflict forced them to flee to neighboring Thailand. Kayans make and wear similar fabrics to the Karen, but have a distinct and defining feature which has lead to the nickname of 'long-neck'.

This name stems from the distinctive neck coils worn by Kayan females. Although no one is sure exactly why the neckrings are worn, the long necks are nonetheless appreciated by the Kayan as a symbol of beauty. Kayan females have seen the tradition of neck coils fade and grow; they are recently becoming fashionable again as tourists flock to observe them. The brass rings, which are worn from the age of five are also often found just below a Kayan woman's knees.

Today, the coils that set these women apart from other Hill tribe women provoke mixed feelings. Kayan people have spoken out against the Thai entrepreneurs who are capitalising on this Kayan cultural practice. The Kayan refuges in Thailand may feel forced to continue practices which draw tourists instead of developing naturally in their new environment. Once a farming people, Kayan men are now idle while the women pose for tourists, and the end result is a 'Human Zoo'- many treks will take tourists to 'artificial' Kayan villages for observation.

However, many Kayans also acknowledge that they are in a better position than other refugees within Thailand. The draw for tourists does provide a consistent if meager revenue. Try to visit an authentic settlement and directly support the Kayan people.

KNGY.

Written by  Amber Dobrzensky.

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