Legend has it that when he visited his father (Tran Anh Tong Emperor) at Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, King Tran Minh Tong would often pass through La Ferry Station in Tien La Village. With his love for this land, the king sent troops to build dikes to prevent floods and provided fields for ferrymen so that the local people did not have to pay fares. After the king passed aways, the locals constructed a temple to pay tribute to him.
On the first day of the second lunar month, the villagersorganise a festival to commemorate the king, with many rituals and folk games. The most unique ritual is the water procession.
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An old woman prays for peace and prosperity. |
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Tien La Village is located on a bow-shaped strip of land. |
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The festival maintains the rustic nature of Yen Dung Village. |
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The festival brings a joyful and exciting atmosphere at the beginning of spring. |
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The festival is held annually on the first and second days of the second lunar month. |
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The main ritual is held in a solemn atmosphere at King Tran Minh Tong Temple. |
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Each alley in the village prepares a tray of offerings to participate in the water procession. |
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The ritual shows the villagers’ gratitude and respect for ancestors who made contributions to the nation and people. |
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People crossing the river do not have to pay fares during the festival. |
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Tien La people are conscious of preserving a clean and beautiful environment and landscape for their homeland. |
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Many unique folk songs and dances are performed by the locals at the festival. |
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The beauty of the village’s festival. |
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After the ceremony, water is drawn from the middle of Thuong River. |
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The procession walk on the dike of Tien La Village to the old ferry wharf. |
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Yen Dung District was originally a military training ground for many kings. That traditional heritage is still maintained through wrestling competitions at the festival. |