State President of Vietnam performed the Tich Dien or ploughing ritual, which was held in Doi Son Village in the northern province of Ha Nam on February 7.
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| The Tich Dien Festival dates back to 987 during the Le Dynasty when King Le Dai Hanh (941 - 1005) plowed a field in Doi Son Commune in present-day Ha Nam Province to encourage rice cultivation. The event is held every year on the seventh day of the first lunar month. |
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A procession of a huge drum and memorial tablet of King Le Dai Hanh started the vivid colorful cultural event. |
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| Dressed in a farmer’s attire, President Nguyen Xuan Phuc and other delegates performed the Tich Dien ceremony, plowing the first rows in the paddy field. It is an important ceremony for Vietnamese, paying homage to the God of Agriculture asking him for a high-yield season and prosperity. |
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| Speaking at the ceremony, President Nguyen Xuan Phuc stated that, among thousands of traditional festivals taking place in all regions of the country, Ha Nam’s Tich Dien festival is a fine trait in the community's cultural life. The festival was recognized by the State as “National Intangible Cultural Heritage”. |
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The ceremony of worshiping the God of Agriculture, praying for a new agricultural season with favorable weather and good harvests. It also shows Vietnamese gratitude to their ancestors who reclaimed land for the cultivation and expansion of rice fields. It is also aimed at upholding the government’s policy of taking agriculture as the basis, considering agriculture as the foundation of national and social stability. |
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The re-enactment of the scene of King Le Dai Hanh plowing on the field was performed by the village’s elders. Some young women recreated the act of planting seeds in the field. |
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President Nguyen Xuan Phuc also gave Li xi or lucky money to people who attended the Tich Dien ploughing festival. |
