One of the traditional rituals preserved at the Keo Village Festival in Thuan An commune, Hanoi, is the ancient “Robing the Buddha” ceremony, which reflects the festival’s spiritual and cultural significance as well as the strong sense of community passed down through generations.
Held annually as part of the Keo Village Festival, the ceremony is considered one of the most sacred rituals of the event. Village elders, monks, and local residents gather at the communal temple and pagoda to carry out the rite in a solemn atmosphere filled with incense, drumbeats, and traditional offerings.
During the ritual, ceremonial robes are respectfully placed on Buddha statues in accordance with long-standing customs. Every step is performed carefully, reflecting the community’s reverence for Buddhism and its desire to preserve traditional cultural values.
For local residents, the ceremony is not only a spiritual practice but also an opportunity for younger generations to learn about their heritage and strengthen bonds within the community. Many villagers participate in preparing offerings, decorating the ritual space, and assisting with festival activities.
Over the years, despite social changes and urban development, the Keo Village Festival has continued to preserve its ancient rituals, contributing to the safeguarding of Hanoi’s rich cultural identity and traditional spiritual life.
The Keo Village Festival is filled with vibrant festival flags and traditional costumes. Photo: VNA
Palanquin bearers prepare for the procession ritual. Photo: VNA
The Keo Village Festival is filled with vibrant festival flags and traditional costumes. Photo: VNA
The festive atmosphere of the Keo Village Festival spreads throughout the surrounding streets. Photo: VNA
Participants perform the "Robing the Buddha" ritual - one of the festival's unique ceremonies rarely preserved elsewhere. Photo: VNA
Local people carry out a life-release ritual during the festival. Photo: VNA
Participants perform the "Robing the Buddha" ritual - one of the festival's unique ceremonies rarely preserved elsewhere. Photo: VNA
The Keo Village Festival serves not only as a religious gathering but also as an occasion to strengthen community bonds and preserve folk cultural heritage. Photo: VNA
The Keo Village Festival is filled with vibrant festival flags and traditional costumes . Photo: VNA
The ancient "Robing the Buddha" ritual reflects profound spiritual and cultural values as well as a strong sense of community preserved through generations. Photo: VNA
The Keo Village Festival serves not only as a religious gathering but also as an occasion to strengthen community bonds and preserve folk cultural heritage. Photo: VNA