Featured in Doodle artwork is an idyllic row-boating scene full of traditional Vietnamese symbolism. The man rower is depicted wearing an iconic non la, a conical leaf hat that originated thousands of years ago and has since become synonymous with the nation’s culture.
Opposite of the man steering the boat, a woman is dressed in an Ao Dai - the elegant national costume of Vietnam, which embodies the pride of the Vietnamese people.
The two are encircled by lily pads and lotus flowers, typical flora found throughout Vietnam’s lakes and ponds.
In its description, Google said that the national flower of Vietnam, the lotus submerges under muddy water at night and resurfaces the next morning. Upon reaching the new dawn’s sunlight, it blooms untarnished by the surrounding mud—even during the most turbulent of times. This act of perseverance demonstrates why many in the country view the lotus blossom as a symbol of strength and optimism.
Not only does this colourful flower brighten the Vietnamese landscape, but it is also deeply ingrained in the nation’s cultural identity, from its towering architecture to its unique cuisine.
Google Doodles have previously commemorated Vietnam’s National Day with the images of the Temple of Literature, the fragrant lotus, and the Dong Son drum in 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively.
They have also praised traditional Vietnamese celebrations such as Tet (lunar New Year) festival and the mid-autumn festival.
