On May 23, Suizhou, a city in Hubei Province, was the center of a vibrant ancestral worship festival in honor of Shennong, known as Emperor Yan. This event, held annually since 2009, attracted a large number of attendees to the Lieshan Ancestral Worship Plaza, where music and rituals merged ancient traditions with the contemporary spirit of the country.
The day began with the ringing of drums and bells as participants lined up to pay homage to the emperor. This year, the event was modernized by integrating digital technologies, allowing the Chinese diaspora around the world to join the ceremony through an online platform. The initiative included interaction with artificial intelligence and a virtual format that facilitated real-time participation in candle lighting and flower offerings, bringing attendees closer to their cultural roots.
Beyond traditional rites, the festival also promoted spaces for cultural exchange and collaboration. The organization of the event was the result of a joint effort between the Suizhou Municipal People’s Government and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, highlighting its significance as a symbol of Chinese civilization.
Declared a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2011, the festival has evolved into a landmark of Chinese culture, underscoring the country’s rich heritage and its connections with the Chinese community abroad. These initiatives not only highlight the history and spirituality of the Chinese people but also encourage investment in cultural and tourism projects, contributing to the economic and social development of the region.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish
