Ethnic Group Chu Ru

Name of ethnic group: Chu Ru (Cho Ru and Ru)

Population: 14,978 people (Year 1999)

Locality: Don Duong District in Lam Dong Province and Binh Thuan Province.

Customs and habits: The Chu Ru worship their ancestors and these rituals are carried out in the cemetery. Each family in the Chu Ru clan consists of three to four matrilineal generations, and monogamy is observed in Chu Ru society. Young women choose their husbands and initiate the process of marriage. The husband then lives with his wife’s family.

Culture: The Chu Ru language belongs to the Malayo-Polynesian group. They have adopted a sedentary life and have developed a rich oral literature composed of popular songs, folk songs, and proverbs. The “play” (village) contains many family lineages, and other ethnic groups may reside in the same village. “Poplay” (village chiefs) are elected by the inhabitants of the village and a sorcerer.

Economy: The Chu Ru developed farming practices very early in the culture. They also developed agriculture, raised cattle, made bamboo and rattan articles, and sculpted pottery. Hunting and gathering have now become sideline occupations in every family.