Hanoi: Ahead of the Kitchen Gods' day on the 23rd day of the last month in the lunar year, which falls on February 10 this year, red carp raising villages in northern Vietnam have entered their busiest season of the year. Red carps (or golden carps) are a fundamental part of the Vietnamese Kitchen Gods' farewell ritual, serving as the symbolic, sacred "vehicle" for the deities to return to heaven.

According to Vietnam News Agency, these vibrant villages are now teeming with activity as they prepare for the annual tradition. The red carp holds significant cultural importance during this time, as it is believed to carry the Kitchen Gods to heaven, where they report on the household's affairs over the past year.

In the lead-up to the event, local farmers work tirelessly to ensure the availability of these special fish, which are in high demand. The preparation involves meticulous care in raising and selecting the carps to fulfill the ritual's requirements.

This busy period not only highlights the cultural significance of the Kitchen Gods' day but also provides an economic boost to the local communities engaged in carp farming. As the day approaches, the anticipation builds, marking an essential moment in Vietnam's cultural calendar.