Jiuhe Village, Qonggyai County, Xizang — The serene fields of Jiuhe Village have burst into color and song as the annual Wangguo Festival commences. From July 30 to August 3, residents come together to honor the impending harvest in a tradition that is both ancient and deeply cherished.
On the festival’s first day, every family sends a young member to participate in the time-honored ritual of “circling the fields.” Adorned in vibrant festive attire, these youths join a lively procession, carrying sacred scriptures and barley wine. Together, they parade around the village’s fields, a moving tableau of community spirit and gratitude.
Individual households also engage in ceremonies, burning mulberry branches to pray for good fortune and a bountiful harvest. The air fills with the fragrant smoke of incense, mingling with the sounds of traditional music and joyous laughter.
The Wangguo Festival, where “wang” signifies crops and “guo” means to circle around, is believed to have originated in the Yarlung Zangbo River valley. The tradition began as a ritual to honor the land’s deity and seek blessings for a prosperous harvest. Today, it is celebrated widely across Xizang’s rural and forested regions and is recognized as part of China’s national intangible cultural heritage.
More than just a celebration of agriculture, the festival strengthens communal bonds and preserves cultural heritage. It surpasses even the Tibetan New Year in grandeur within Xizang’s farming communities, reflecting the profound connection between the people and their land.
As the festival continues, visitors and locals alike are invited to partake in the festivities, experiencing firsthand the rich traditions that have sustained Jiuhe Village for generations. The Wangguo Festival not only pays homage to the harvest but also serves as a vibrant reminder of the enduring spirit of the community.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
