The Festival of Ba Chua Xu on Nui Sam: A UNESCO Recognized Cultural Marvel

The Festival of Ba Chua Xu on Nui Sam: A UNESCO Recognized Cultural Marvel

An Giang, a charming province in southern Vietnam, is not only renowned for its majestic temples such as the Ba Thien Hau Temple and the Phuoc Thanh Pagoda but also boasts vibrant cultural activities, among which the Festival of Ba Chua Xu on Nui Sam stands out. This festival is a captivating tapestry woven from the spiritual threads of the four ethnic communities: Kinh, Khmer, Hoa, and Cham, reflecting a harmonious blend of belief and tradition.

A Journey Through Time: The Origins of the Festival

The Festival of Ba Chua Xu on Nui Sam, held annually in Chau Doc, is a celebration steeped in history. The festival has roots that stretch back centuries and encapsulates the cultural identity of the southern riverine communities. On December 19, 2014, the festival was officially recognized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. Furthermore, in 2016, it earned the prestigious title of a Representative Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

The Significance of the Festival

The Festival of Ba Chua Xu embodies the rich historical narrative of Vietnamese settlement in An Giang. It serves as a traditional observance handed down through generations, showcasing the distinctive heritage and interactions between the Kinh people and their Khmer, Hoa, and Cham neighbors. This festival plays a vital role in connecting the spiritual lives of the Chau Doc residents while preserving the historical values of their ancestors as they explored the southwestern frontier of the country.

The Legend of Ba Chua Xu

According to legend, during the years 1820 to 1825, when Siamese troops invaded Vietnam, they encountered a large stone statue resting at the peak of Nui Sam. Despite their efforts to carry it down the mountain, the statue inexplicably became exceedingly heavy. In a fit of frustration, one soldier broke the statue’s left arm, only to suffer immediate repercussions. Many villagers dreamt of the statue, who introduced herself as Ba Chua Xu, claiming that if they would carry her down from the mountain and build her a shrine, she would protect them from invaders and bless them with favorable weather. True to her words, when a group of nine chaste maidens attempted to carry her down, they found her weight manageable. Upon reaching the base of the mountain, the statue became immovable again, revealing the chosen site for her temple.

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Time and Location of the Festival in 2024

Festival Dates

The Festival of Ba Chua Xu will take place from April 23 to April 27, according to the lunar calendar, corresponding to May 30 and May 31, 2024, in the solar calendar.

Venue

The festival is hosted at the Ba Chua Xu Temple on Nui Sam in Chau Doc, An Giang. Even outside of festival events, this temple attracts countless devotees who come daily to offer prayers. This attraction arises from the belief that those who pay their respects here experience tangible blessings and divine protection. The temple’s architecture, reflecting exquisite Indian influences, adds to its allure.

What Makes the Festival Special?

Ritual Ceremonies

The festival’s rituals are characterized by a series of significant ceremonies. These include the procession to transport the statue of Ba Chua Xu to her temple, the ceremonial bathing of the statue, the invocation of the spirit of Ong Thoai Ngoc Hau, and several other spiritual observances. The procession begins on April 22, culminating in the ceremonial bathing event at dawn on April 24, exclusively conducted by nine virgin women. Following the bath, pieces of Ba’s old garments are distributed among attendees as talismans for health and peace. On April 24 at 3 PM, the spirit of Ong Thoai Ngoc Hau and his two consorts are also honored in a ritual performed by the village elders and the temple’s management.

The celebrations continue with additional rituals and special offerings made on April 25, including dishes that symbolize prosperity and vitality. The festival concludes on April 27 with the final rites.

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Cultural Festivities

Since being recognized as a National Festival in 2001, the celebration of the Festival of Ba Chua Xu has witnessed vibrant growth, incorporating cultural festivities that resonate with the local traditions of the Kinh, Cham, Hoa, and Khmer communities. Visitors can immerse themselves in various activities, including cultural weeks, sports events, folk games, and vibrant performances showcasing traditional ethnic dances.

Every year, the festival attracts over a million participants from various regions, especially from the Mekong Delta and Southeast Asia, turning the temple grounds into a bustling center of spirituality and festivity.

Tips and Reminders for Attending the Festival

If you are planning to participate in the Festival of Ba Chua Xu, here are some useful tips:

  • Be mindful of your belongings as the festival attracts a large crowd, leading to potential push and shove.
  • For safety reasons, avoid purchasing incense or roasted pork from street vendors and opt for reputable stores instead.
  • Do not accept offerings from strangers, as it may lead to unexpected demands for money.

In conclusion, the Festival of Ba Chua Xu on Nui Sam is not just a celebration; it is a vivid journey into the heart of cultural heritage and spiritual devotion. We invite you to join in this vibrant experience, share your thoughts in the comments below, and explore more about travel and cultural festivities on our website!

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