Hanoi: Markets across the capital city of Hanoi are teeming with fresh produce and traditional offerings as locals are preparing to bid farewell to the Ong Cong (Land Genie) and Ong Tao (Kitchen Gods) to the heaven, an important precursor to the Tet (Lunar New Year) celebrations. As the legend goes, Ong Cong is the one in charge of land while Ong Tao, consisting of two males and one female, are those who keep a watch over kitchen affairs of a family. They take note of a family’s issues in a year and will ride carps back to the Heaven on the 23rd day of the last lunar month to report all the good and bad things of that family to the God of Heaven. While the official date is still several days away, many families have begun their celebrations as early as January 18 (the 19th day of the last lunar month).
According to Vietnam News Agency, this cultural tradition sees families purchasing various items including fresh fish, fruits, and flowers to create offerings for the Kitchen Gods. The bustling markets reflect the importance of this event in Vietnamese culture as it marks the beginning of preparations for the upcoming Lunar New Year. Vendors are experiencing an influx of customers eager to buy the necessary items to ensure a favorable report is delivered to the God of Heaven.
In addition to food and flowers, families also prepare paper costumes for the Kitchen Gods, which are burned as part of the ritual. These symbolic gestures are believed to provide the gods with new clothes for their journey to heaven. The practice underscores the deep-rooted beliefs in the spiritual significance of the Kitchen Gods’ role in safeguarding and blessing the household for the upcoming year.
The vibrant atmosphere in Hanoi’s markets during this time highlights the community’s anticipation and excitement for the Tet celebrations, which are seen as a time of renewal and hope for the future. As families continue their preparations, the city remains a lively hub of cultural activity, drawing both locals and tourists to witness this unique tradition.