Preserving traditions, honoring history.

(CLO) On the occasion of the Lunar New Year, February 10th (corresponding to the 13th day of the 1st lunar month of the Year of the Snake), the people of Thach Ha district ( Ha Tinh province) solemnly held the 1302nd anniversary commemoration ceremony of King Mai Hac De at the temple in Mai Lam village, Mai Phu commune. This is an opportunity for local people to remember the heroic king's contributions, to rekindle national pride, and to promote spiritual and cultural traditions.

The Mai Hac De Temple, built in 2010 on an area of 5,000 square meters, is a place of worship and gratitude to the emperor who led the uprising against the Tang dynasty's rule. In 2011, this structure was classified as a Provincial-level Historical and Cultural Relic, becoming an important spiritual and cultural destination in Ha Tinh province.

The royal procession of the crane to preserve traditions and honor history (Figure 1) — The ceremony was conducted solemnly and respectfully by local leaders and respected elders in the community.

Mai Hắc Đế, whose real name was Mai Thúc Loan, was born in Mai Phụ commune, Thạch Hà district. Witnessing the suffering of the people under foreign rule, he led the Hoan Châu uprising in 713, liberating a large area in what is now Nghệ An province . After the victory, he was proclaimed emperor, taking the regnal name Mai Hắc Đế. However, in 722, the Tang dynasty suppressed the uprising. Surrounded, he retreated into the forest and died there in 723.

The royal procession of the crane to preserve traditions and honor history (Figure 2) — The offerings (sticky rice with chicken, pig's head, banh chung (traditional Vietnamese rice cake), fruits, betel nuts, etc.) are meticulously and elegantly prepared by the authorities and the people, ensuring cleanliness and beauty.

The commemoration ceremony for King Mai Hac De was held according to traditional customs with the participation of a large number of local people. Seven villages in Mai Phu commune offered more than 2,000 banh chung (traditional Vietnamese rice cakes) along with many beautifully arranged feasts, reflecting the distinctive cultural characteristics of the coastal inhabitants. The ceremony was conducted solemnly, expressing reverence and gratitude towards their ancestors.

The royal procession of the crane symbolizes preserving traditions and honoring history (Figure 3).

The royal procession of the crane to preserve traditions and honor history (Figure 4) — The commemoration ceremony for King Mai in the year of the Snake (2025) honors the contributions of our ancestors, awakens patriotism and national spirit, meets cultural and spiritual needs, and encourages unity and dedication.

Following the ceremonial rituals, the leaders of Thach Ha district, along with representatives from various departments, officials, Party members, and the people, offered incense before the spirit of the heroic king. In a sacred atmosphere, everyone prayed for national peace and prosperity, a bountiful harvest, an abundant supply of fish and shrimp from the sea, and a life of warmth, happiness, and well-being.

The royal procession of the crane symbolizes preserving traditions and honoring history (Figure 5). — The main program for the commemoration of King Mai includes sacred and meaningful activities such as: performing the ceremonial offerings, the main drum performance, the sacrificial ceremony (main memorial), and offering incense and flowers.

Organizing the commemoration ceremony for King Mai not only signifies historical gratitude but also contributes to educating people about the tradition of "drinking water, remembering the source," and fostering national pride. It is also an opportunity for people to enjoy spiritual and cultural values, creating a positive and enthusiastic spirit, encouraging labor and production, and contributing to the construction of new rural areas at the beginning of spring.

The royal procession of the crane symbolizes preserving traditions and honoring history (Figure 6). — Guests, delegations offering incense, and the people respectfully pay homage and pray for national peace and prosperity, good health, bountiful harvests, calm seas, and the eradication of diseases.

The commemoration ceremony for King Mai Hac De is not only a significant event for the people of Thach Ha but also a cherished cultural tradition of Ha Tinh province. Preserving and promoting the value of this historical site and ceremony contributes to maintaining national identity and simultaneously promoting the image of the homeland to tourists from near and far.

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/le-gio-vua-mai-hac-de-gin-giu-truyen-thong-ton-vinh-lich-su-post333832.html