Ben Tre's Whale Worshipping Festival recognised as intangible cultural heritage

The Nghinh Ong (Whale Worshipping) Festival in Binh Thang commune, Binh Dai district, in the Mekong Delta province of Ben Tre was recognised as a national intangible cultural heritage.

The festival is the first national intangible cultural heritage in Ben The province.

The Whale Worshipping Festival in Binh Thang commune is held annually from the 15th to 17th day of the six lunar month.

The festival features a wide variety of ceremonies and rituals, of which the whale worshipping ceremony is the most important activity, attracting the participation of numerous fishermen.

About 20 fishing boats, including one central boat, are brightly decorated with flags and flowers and come to the seaport to show their gratitude to the whale and to pray for fair winds and good seas, a safe return to shore, good luck, happiness and prosperity.

Fishermen consider the whale (Ca Ong) as a god and believe that whales rescue people in danger at sea and can bring them a better fishing season.

In addition to rituals, a range of fairs, art performances, folk games and sports competitions are held during the three-day festival.

The event offers an opportunity for local fishermen to gather and relax after their hard work, creating unity among members in the community and society.

(Source: NDO)