On the 10^th day of the first lunar month every year, Thon Phu Thu villagers in Hanoi gather at their communal house for their village festival, which also features a special performance. A tray of rice, a plate of salt, an incense burner, an areca nut and a candle sit in the middle of a rush mat in the communal house’s courtyard. An elderly woman, surrounded by four or five others, holds an oar and is the host of the show.

After she and other supporting players read out a few sentences from a Buddhist sutra, the host uses the oar as if she were rowing a boat. Folklore researcher, Tran Lam Bien says this simple performance has great philosophical and expressive significance.                 

“During the performance, we feel as if there were a boat floating on the river of life,” Mr Bien said. “But this boat never stops. It keeps on moving until it lands on the shore of enlightenment. The boat of enlightenment and Buddha’s stories lead people from illusions to the path of wisdom, which is free from suffering.”

Telling Buddha’s stories highlight his teachings and guidelines for behavior as well as his sacrifice to save humankind from suffering.                                              

One story tells of the legend of Kwan Yin or Avalokiteshvara, a female bodhisattva, who is merciful and compassionate and called upon by her devotees in times of trouble.

“This legend tells of Kwan Yin in Huong Tich pagoda,” said performer Tran Thi Viet, who is 63 years old. “It highlights her sacrifice to save people from misfortune and danger. Buddha is always in our heart. We read Buddhist sutras to educate people, especially the young about how to behave properly in life.”