E-magazine: The rain-praying ceremony of Yang Pơtao Apui on the summit of the sacred Chư Tao Yang mountain.

The event, organized by the People's Committee of Phu Thien district, aims to promote cultural heritage and socio-economic potential, thereby attracting tourists and investors in the tourism sector.

Rain-praying ritual on the summit of the sacred Chu Tao Yang mountain. **Photo: Hoang Ngoc**

The ceremony was attended by Ms. Ayun H'Bút, Provincial Party Committee member and Vice Chairwoman of the Provincial People's Council; leaders of several provincial departments and agencies; and experts, scientists , and researchers from the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences. Representing the district were leaders of the District Party Committee, People's Council, People's Committee, various district agencies, departments, and organizations, along with a large number of local residents and tourists.

The Yang Pơtao Apui rain-praying ceremony takes place on the summit of the sacred Chư Tao Yang mountain, located within the Plei Ơi National Monument. The ceremony is presided over by Mr. Siu Phơ (assistant to the 14th Fire King) along with a council of village elders and supporting artisans. Below the summit of Chư Tao Yang mountain, the master of ceremonies, Mr. Siu Phơ, prays to heaven and earth for favorable weather, abundant harvests, flourishing vegetation, and harmonious coexistence with nature; he also prays to the gods to help people master their lives, for villagers to be united, healthy, and overcome all natural disasters and calamities, ensuring prosperity and well-being for the village.

The ceremonies taking place on the mountain are livestreamed live by the organizers on large screens at the historical site, allowing locals and tourists to follow along remotely.

Alongside the rain-praying ceremony, the 16th District Ethnic Minority Cultural and Sports Festival, held at the Plei Ơi National Historical Site, attracted 300 artisans from 10 communes and towns. The festival featured many exciting activities such as: gong performances, weaving, sculpture, brocade weaving; stilt walking for men and women; crossbow shooting for men and women; sack racing for men and women; and the "Following in the Footsteps of the Fire King" running race.

The festival also includes an agricultural market showcasing OCOP products, local produce, and souvenirs to meet the shopping, sightseeing, and dining needs of visitors.

During this period, several communes organize unique cultural activities such as: the water-blessing ceremony in So Ma Hang village (Ia Peng commune), and the Yang Oi Dai rain-praying ceremony in Plei Rbai village (Ia Piar commune). These are characteristic rituals in Jrai culture, creating connections between heritage sites and enriching the experience for tourists visiting the land of the Fire King.