The Sai Temple Festival in Dong Anh District, Hanoi, is held annually on the 11th day of the first lunar month, which falls on February 20 this year. The festival commemorates the legend of King An Duong Vuong, who constructed the Co Loa Citadel in 258 B.C. According to the legend, the king’s construction was disrupted by the Bach Ke Tinh, also known as the White Cock Devil.
The highlight of the Millennium Festival is the grand procession of the King and the Lord. This ancient ritual is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to the participants.
The roles of “King” and “Lord” in the Sai Temple Festival are played by two respected village elders. Photo: Huy Pham/The Hanoi Times
The villagers of Sai spend several months preparing for this vibrant and joyous festival.
Individuals who portray the roles of kings, lords, or mandarins must possess good virtues and have a positive reputation within the community.
Elders above the age of 70, who assume the roles of “King” or “Lord,” first serve as “Mandarins” in previous editions of the festival.
Le Vinh Lo, 75, paints his face in the majestic and austere color of red as he embodies the role of the “Lord”.
Meanwhile, Tran Tien Tinh, 72, portrays the “King” with a gentler white-painted face.
Aside from the “King” and “Lord”, there are also “Mandarins” dressed in blue court attire.
The “Lord” performs ritual sacrifices to the saints revered by the villagers at two sacred temples in the area.
The Sai Temple Festival has been cherished and celebrated by the villagers for hundreds of years.
The Spring Festival attracts thousands of residents and tourists every year, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Co Loa festival, in commemoration of An Duong Vuong, founder of Au Lac, the second state in Vietnamese history, took place in Dong Anh district, Hanoi, on Jan. 30.
NDO/VNA – Hanoi will spend VND60 billion (US$2.6 million) on preserving and promoting the value of the Co Loa historical site in Dong Anh district during the 2018-2020 period after the site is reported to be encroached seriously.
Co Loa Citadel, about 20 km to the north of today’s Hanoi, is not only a lively evidence of the ancient Vietnamese people’s tradition in their struggle against invaders to defend the country, but also an ideal destination for tourists.
Co Loa Citadel, about 20 km to the north of today’s Hanoi, is not only a lively evidence of the ancient Vietnamese people’s tradition in their struggle against invaders to defend the country, but also an ideal destination for tourists.
NDO – The Soc Temple Festival kicked off at Soc Temple in Phu Linh Commune, Soc Son District, Hanoi, on February 30, the sixth day of the first lunar month.
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