Linh Lang – Sacred Convergence – Long Bien Shines spreads national aspirations

The Hanoi Times — The art program "Linh Lang – Sacred Convergence – Long Bien Shines," held tonight (March 8) at the Truong Lam Communal House and Pagoda Relic Complex in Long Bien District, Hanoi, honors historical values, cultural heritage, and the aspirations of the people.

The cultural event is broadcast live on Hanoi Radio and Television and all platforms of the Kinh te & Do thi (Economic and Urban) Newspaper, which serves as the media sponsor.

Long Bien, an ancient land steeped in religious traditions that have evolved through various historical periods, is home to 105 cultural relics, including 40 cultural heritage sites. The urban district features 13 relics dedicated to worshiping Linh Lang Dai Vuong (Linh Lang Lord), a revered mythical figure known for helping people establish stable livelihoods.

Linh Lang Lord is regarded as a symbol of patriotism and the long-standing tradition of water management.

The program will feature a semi-realistic presentation enhanced by 3D mapping technology. The music will blend folk and modern elements, accompanied by innovative lighting effects that bring the historical narrative to life across different eras.

The innovative use of 3D mapping and lighting technology brings the legend of Linh Lang Lord to life. This modern approach honors the people's patriotism and expertise in water management, making the story more engaging and accessible, especially for younger audiences. By leveraging state-of-the-art technology, the event aims to effectively educate students about traditional cultural values.

Tailored by Director Mai Thanh Tung, the program features a diverse artistic presentation, incorporating elements such as singing, dancing, music, synchronized drumming, and ao dai performances.

One of the program’s features is the reenactment of the Procession and Offering Ritual that marks the involvement of multiple generations of Long Bien residents and symbolizes the communal solidarity. Additionally, other rituals with artistic 3D mapping convey meaningful messages to younger generations.

In folklore, Linh Lang is associated with agricultural rituals, particularly those related to water worship. There are two primary forms of water worship: one to pray for water and another to manage water resources. Water is the foundation of the four essential factors in agriculture (water, fertilizer, diligence, and seeds), an important element in Vietnamese culture.

As a mythical figure, Linh Lang played a vital role in helping people build prosperous communities, embodying the values of patriotism and water management.

As recorded in the royal genealogy compiled by Grand Academician Nguyen Binh in 1572, Linh Lang Lord, originally named Prince Hoang Lang, was the son of King Ly Thanh Tong and Consort Hao Nuong. He played a crucial role in repelling the Song invaders in the late 11th century.

To honor his achievements, the king conferred upon him the title “Linh Lang Dai Vuong Thuong Dang Phuc Than” (Supreme ranking blessed deity) and commissioned the construction of a temple on Long Thu Mound, now known as Voi Phuc Temple in downtown Hanoi, for worship. Moreover, various locations across the country have also built temples in his honor.

The “Linh Lang – Sacred Convergence – Long Bien Shines” program revives the rich cultural heritage associated with Linh Lang Lord while promoting national cultural values and attracting tourists.

The Linh Lang Lord Festival is celebrated in various locations throughout the country, with a particular highlight being the Truong Lam Communal House Festival, which was recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2018.