The Kate Festival, a revered celebration of the Cham Brahman community, began with a solemn procession honoring the sacred attire of Goddess Po Inu Nagar. Esteemed as the Mother of the Land, she is credited with imparting essential skills in farming, weaving, and animal husbandry to the Cham people. This sacred ritual united Cham communities from Huu Duc, Tan Duc, and Thanh Duc villages, alongside Raglai ethnic representatives from Phuoc Ha commune.

As the afternoon sun cast its glow, the resonant beats of gongs and drums reverberated through the village, heralding the commencement of a vibrant parade. Led by distinguished Brahman dignitaries, the procession featured flag bearers, performers, and hundreds of participants adorned in traditional attire, creating a spectacle of color and culture.

During a ceremonial pause, Raglai representatives solemnly entrusted the sacred costume to Cham elders, a symbolic gesture of unity and respect. The parade then proceeded to the main stage for the official opening ceremony, marking the beginning of a series of sacred rituals.

Local authorities extended warm greetings and congratulations to the Cham community, celebrating their rich heritage. The sacred items were later returned to the temple in Huu Duc village, signifying the continuation of rituals and festive activities that would unfold over the coming days.

Throughout the celebration, visitors were captivated by the graceful fan and water-balance dances, accompanied by the mesmerizing rhythms of the Paranung drums and the melodic tones of the Saranai flute. These performances showcased the Cham people’s artistic prowess, their deep-rooted harmony, and their unwavering pride in their cultural heritage.

Preparations for the festival began weeks in advance, with local households meticulously decorating their homes, crafting offerings, weaving new garments, and rehearsing traditional dances. Each drumbeat and flute note served as a reminder of their shared identity, filling the locals with a profound sense of pride and belonging. The Kate Festival is not merely a time of worship but also a vital opportunity to pass down cherished traditions to the younger generation.

Spanning from October 20 to 22, the festival’s main ceremony took place on October 21 at three sacred Cham sites: the Po Klong Garai tower, the Po Rome tower, and the Po Inu Nagar temple. Key rituals included the costume procession, tower-opening, statue bathing, clothing ceremony, and peace prayers, followed by cultural performances, traditional cuisine, and craft displays that offered a glimpse into the Cham way of life.

Recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2017, the Kate Festival transcends its role as a spiritual event, emerging as a vibrant symbol of cultural preservation. It strengthens community bonds, connects Khanh Hoa’s heritage with both domestic and international visitors, and ensures that the rich traditions of the Cham people continue to thrive for generations to come.

Cham Brahman Community in Ninh Thuan Celebrates Kate Festival

The Cham Brahman people’s traditional Kate Festival commenced in the south-central province of Ninh Thuan on October 1, attracting a diverse crowd of local residents and tourists eager to partake in this cultural extravaganza.