(VOVWORLD) - The Yang Potao Apui (Fire King) rain-praying ceremony, a revered Jrai ethnic tradition in Vietnam's Central Highlands, was held Thursday at the historic Plei Oi relic site in Gia Lai province.
 Villagers climb to the top of Chu Tao Yang mountain to perform the rain-praying ritual. (Photo: VOV) |
Villagers, who took part in the ceremony on Chu Tao Yang mountain, prayed for favorable weather, abundant harvests, good health, peace, and prosperity.
"It’s an honor for us to host this rain-praying ceremony. Our hope is to revive and strengthen the traditions and identity of the Jrai ethnic group," Rmah Phiet, a representative of Plei Tel A village, told VOV.
After the ceremony, a cultural and sports festival was held which included gong performances, statue carving, and brocade weaving, and traditional games likes tilt walking, crossbow shooting, sack racing, and a footrace called "Following the Footsteps of the Fire King".
"These activities play an important role in preserving and sharing the cultural traditions of local ethnic groups. Experiencing them firsthand helps to spread their values to a wider audience," Pham Thi Kieu, a visitor, said.
The festival preserves the rich heritage of the Jrai people while fostering cultural exchange and tourism in the region.