King of 'long song' on big screen

Updated: 2012-05-10 21:27

By Liu Wei (chinadaily.com.cn)

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A biopic of Hajab, king of the Mongolian "long song", a unique style of chant that has been a key part of Mongolian culture for 2,000 years, was released on May 5.

Titled Hajab's Gift, the film follows the life of Hajab, who passed away in 2005.

Born in 1922 to a family of nomads, Hajab showed outstanding singing talent when he was a little boy. He was adopted by a nobleman to perform before his guests, but he left and perfected his singing from a master.

Director Chen Liming casts both professional actors and Inner Mongolian locals. She interviewed Hajab in his little house twice and pays tribute through the film to the singer beloved by Inner Mongolian people.