(VOVworld) - The Whale Worshipping (Cau Ngu) Ritual in the central coast province of Khanh Hoa has been recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage. This ancient tradition of fishermen along Vietnam’s central and southern coasts originates from the custom of worshipping Nam Hai (the Whale Saint) who safeguards fishermen. The festival is held whenever fishermen begin a new fishing season to pray for plentiful catches of fish, safe voyages, and peace for the nation.
 |
| The dance is part of the Whale Worshiping Ritual. (Photo: VOV) |
The festival, held annually at 46 communal houses in Khanh Hoa province, preserves rituals such as the procession of the feudal title and a ceremony to honor the Whale Saint. Le Van Hoa of the Khanh Hoa provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, said: "The Whale Worshiping Ritual deeply embraces the spiritual values related to the sea which are widely seen in Khanh Hoa province. It was created and developed in parallel with the national cultural development. We want to promote its values, notably fishermen’s ownership and exploitation of Vietnam’s sea and islands."