Why Do These Women Stretch Their Necks? | National Geographic
The Padang Women of Northwest Thailand
This video explores the unique tradition of the Padang women in northwest Thailand, who wear brass coils around their necks to create an illusion of a longer neck.
The Tradition of the Wang
- The Padang women wear brass coils around their necks, which they call "Wang," to create an illusion of a longer neck.
- The process begins when girls are young and their bones are small and flexible. They must return every few years to have more coils added, which is painful but necessary for belonging to the tribe.
- When wearing the rings, it is not actually the neck that gets longer but rather the shoulders that get pushed down and lowered as the coil grows. This intentional deformation creates an illusion of a longer neck.
Persecution and Escape
- In 1962, Myanmar's military seized control of the country and began cracking down on tribes deemed primitive and tribal customs like Wang were outlawed.
- To maintain their identity and escape civil war, many tribes including Manang fled to neighboring countries like Thailand.
Caught Between Two Worlds
- Today, housed in refugee camps in Thailand, Padang women have drawn crowds of Western tourists who travel to witness their ancient ways.
- After 10 years with her brass collar on, Ba-bang has her rings refitted. She is astonished at how light she feels without them but eagerly returns to her old identity even though it may be years or decades before she sees her neck again.
Preserving Culture and Customs
- As refugees, the Padang have endured much to preserve their culture and customs. Today, these rings of brass represent one tribe's commitment to a future that does not sacrifice its past.