King worship rituals through eyes of photographers
A photo exhibition presenting Hung King worship rituals and the story of it becoming an intangible heritage of humanity began in northern Phu Tho province on April 23.
Hung King is the title given to the ancient Vietnamese rulers of the Hong Bang period (2879–258 BC). They were the kings of Van Lang.
Two hundred pictures at the exhibition showcase the unique practice of worshiping the Hung Kings, recognised by UNESCO as part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage in 2012, down to the smallest detail.
The charming xoan (local spring folk) singing is also reflected in images displayed at the event.
According to the Vice Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism Pham Ba Khiem, the exhibit is designed to help the public understand the value of showing respect to their ancestors.
The Hung Kings Festival is held annually from the eight to the eleventh days of the third lunar month, honouring the legendary founders of the nation. The main festival day, which has been a public holiday in Vietnam since 2007, is on the tenth day, which falls on April 28 this year.
An estimated 6-7 million people are expected to turn out for this year's festival, which will run from April 23-28 at Hung Vuong Square in Viet Tri city, PhuTho province.