Whale worship festival in Da Nang recognised as intangible heritage

A ceremony was held in Thanh Khe district of the central city of Da Nang, on February 20 to receive the certificate recognising the district’s Cau Ngu (whale worship) festival on the national list of intangible cultural heritage.

The festival in Thanh Khe District is one of the traditional whale-worshipping celebrations of fishing communities in coastal localities.

The whale worship festival is part of the cultural identity of Viet Nam’s central and southern coastal localities, which has been preserved and passed down through the generations. Participants pray for plenteous hauls of fish, safe voyages, and peace for the nation.

The festival has been an indispensable part of life in fishing villages and is an important spiritual and cultural event, staged in the hope of winning favour with the sea god.

Speaking at the ceremony, Director of the municipal Department of Culture and Sports Huynh Van Hung said the festival is designed to honour those who contribute to the country’s fisheries sector, as well as preserve traditional folk culture.
Source: VNA