Origin of Chinese Lantern Festival
The Lantern Festival, also known as Yuanxiao Festival, is celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month in the Chinese calendar. It is a traditional festival with many legends and stories surrounding it. Here are some of the most famous tales associated with the Lantern Festival:
1. Originating from Han Dynasty tradition, the Lantern Festival was a time to pray for a bountiful harvest and ward off evil spirits. The festival also marked the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations.
2. It is said that the Lantern Festival dates back more than 2,000 years to the Han Dynasty. Emperor Wu (156-87 BC) ordered that lanterns be lit in the Palace to celebrate the end of the Chinese New Year. Over time, the tradition spread and became a national festival.
3. Another story tells of a celestial crane that flew down to earth and transformed into a beautiful maiden. She fell in love with a mortal man and they were happily married. However, the Jade Emperor of Heaven was angry that a heavenly being had married a mortal and ordered her back to Heaven. The man was heartbroken and on the 15th day of the first lunar month, he made a huge bonfire in the hope that it would guide his wife back to him. The Jade Emperor, moved by his devotion, allowed the couple to reunite on this day every year.
4. A third legend involves the Jade Emperor’s daughter being held captive by a monster. A wise man advised people to set off fireworks and light lanterns to drive away the monster. The plan succeeded and the people continued to celebrate the tradition every year.
5. Yuanxiao (sticky rice ball) is a traditional food for the Lantern Festival. A popular legend tells the story of a man who made the sticky rice balls for his friend, who was grieving over the loss of his wife. The man advised his friend to eat the rice balls by the riverside under the full moon because his wife loved moonlight. After his friend followed his advice, he saw a reflection of his wife in the river, and they were reunited.
These are just a few examples of the many legends and stories that surround the Lantern Festival, which continues to be celebrated with colourful lanterns, firework displays, and delicious food.
