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The vast majority (about 95%) of the people of Thailand are devout Buddhists who practice Theravada Buddhism. However, there are a number of ethnic minorities (about 1 million ) who reside in the Northern Hills and primarily practice animistic worship of various spirits, although a few are converts to Christianity. These hill tribe people have migrated to Thailand from China (Akha, Lahu, Lisu, Mein, Hmongs) or from Mynamar (Karen, Paduang or Kayan, Palong) or from Laos (Hmongs, Khamu).

During Jan.-Feb. 2010, I was fortunate to spend two weeks photographing Hill tribe people in several villages in the Phrao, Doi Angkhang, Mae Salong and Chang Rai areas of Northern Thailand. I was especially struck by the beautiful costumes and jewellery worne by the tribal women and children. However, I could not help but feel unhappy for the beautification burden carried by the Long Neck women from the Kayan or Padaung tribe, who wear brass rings on their necks starting at the tender age of 5 years.