In our special series on northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, we highlight Xinjiang's journey to progress and prosperity over the past 70 years. In this episode, we bring you to Makit County, to witness the revival of Dolan Muqam, a musical tradition that has boosted cultural tourism and Uygur's pride in their rich heritage.
In the Uygur language, Muqam means music and dance. And the Dolan people on the western edge of China's Taklimakan Desert perform it in the wildest form – bold, rugged, and proudly so.
AYXAMGUL AHAT Party Secretary Makit County Dolan Art Troupe "In the past, people in Makit lived by hunting and fishing. When we perform, it feels like they're in a hunt – masculine, powerful, and full of strength."
Tracing back centuries, Muqam art is a living encyclopedia of the Uygur culture.
AYXAMGUL AHAT Party Secretary Makit County Dolan Art Troupe "We sing about life, and we sing about love."
Once heard at weddings and harvests, Dolan Muqam is now taking to larger stages – with government support fueling a revival.
MIHIRGUL MUHTAR Director Makit County Culture and Tourism Bureau "Every year, more than 500,000 yuan is set aside specifically for safeguarding and transmitting our intangible heritage."
TAO YUAN Makit County, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region "It's a window into local ethnic culture. These ancient melodies are now finding new audiences."
LI YANG Tourist from Guangdong Province "This is the most traditional and rich Uygur culture, and we want our child to experience it."
It's one piece of a much larger picture.
Xinjiang is looking to expand tourism as part of efforts to diversify its economy and strengthen modernization.
An action plan released this year sets ambitious goals: more than 400 million annual visits by 2030, generating about one trillion yuan or $140 billion in culture and tourism revenue.
MIHIRGUL MUHTAR Director Makit County Culture and Tourism Bureau "Tourists across China are showing huge enthusiasm for Xinjiang. More tourists are interested in Dolan Muqam. It has become one of Makit's calling cards."
Makit's tourism is still maturing. For now, it's often just a stopover between Tashkurgan and Kashi City – many visitors don't stay the night.
But the rich cultural heritage and unique desert experiences here are giving people more reasons to stay.
LI YANG Tourist from Guangdong Province "Word of mouth matters. Authentic experiences will attract more people to learn and share, and help cultures connect."
That attention gives performers pride, and power to keep their traditions alive.
PATIGUL RAKHMAN Master Performer of Dolan Muqam "We love our Chinese culture, and Dolan culture is part of that. When outsiders see our Dolan culture and applaud us, we find our strength. All the hardship and worries are forgotten."
An ancient rhythm, a modern road. As Xinjiang widens its path to prosperity, the Dolan beat is helping to turn culture into opportunity. Tao Yuan, CGTN, Makit County, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.
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