The Sai Temple Festival in Thuy Lam, Dong Anh, Hanoi, is a cherished annual event held on the 10th and 11th days of the first lunar month.

With its unique "King Procession" ritual, the festival embodies the spirit of community, expressing gratitude to the deities and praying for prosperity, harmony, and abundant harvests.

This year, the festival stood out for its well-organized and pristine environment. Unlike previous years, there were no street vendors or food stalls cluttering the roads. Visitors leisurely strolled through the village paths, immersing themselves in the festive atmosphere without distraction.

An unforgettable cold day for the "King"

One of the most anticipated moments of the festival was the grand procession, where locals honor a "King" and a "Lord" in an elaborate reenactment.

The role of the King was played by Nguyen Huu Ba, a 74-year-old resident who had previously portrayed a high-ranking official in past festivals. The Lord was embodied by Truong Dang Cuong, 72, a respected figure in the village.

As the procession moved through the streets, the "King" sat high on an ornately decorated palanquin, waving to villagers despite the biting cold.

With temperatures dropping to just 12°C, the elderly "King" visibly shivered, his hands trembling as he greeted onlookers.

The "Lord," wielding a ceremonial sword, performed dramatic gestures to showcase strength and authority. His palanquin was continuously lifted and tilted, requiring him to be strapped in with a red rope to prevent any mishaps.

Adding to the spectacle were four honorary officials - Quan Thu Ve, Quan Tan Ly, Quan De Linh, and Quan Tran Thu - each carried in hammocks by their descendants. These roles were highly coveted, with participants selected through a rigorous village-wide process.

The "King" finds warmth in an unusual way

Following the morning procession, as the "King" arrived at the temple, he found himself struggling against the intense cold.

In a moment that amused many festival-goers, he requested a hit of local pipe tobacco, seeking warmth in the swirling smoke. As he exhaled, a dreamy haze enveloped him, capturing the attention and delight of onlookers.

This year’s Sai Temple Festival left a lasting impression with its blend of tradition, organization, and cultural richness.

Security, traffic control, and hygiene were all well-managed, and the absence of commercial distractions allowed the focus to remain on the spiritual and communal aspects of the celebration.

Nguyen Huu Ba’s portrayal of the "King" was a highlight of the event, not only for his regal presence but also for his relatable struggle against the winter chill.

Bao Kien