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Traditions - Thailand, Phuket Vegetarian Festival

81 images Created 15 Apr 2014

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  • People from the public seen at Bang Neow shrine in Phuket town during Phuket vegetarian festival. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the company’s example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A boy seen inside Bang Neow shrine holding on to small sticks of inscence. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.<br />
Participants of the festival adhere to a strict vegetarian diet for at least three days. This is one of the 10 main rules meant to ensure good hygiene and inner peace. Sex, alcohol, and meat are strictly forbidden. As cleanliness is considered to be of paramount importance, menstruating and pregnant women are not supposed to attend any of the rituals. The festival rules also call for impeccable mental and physical behavior as well as white clothing.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Street procession in Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.<br />
Participants of the festival adhere to a strict vegetarian diet for at least three days. This is one of the 10 main rules meant to ensure good hygiene and inner peace. Sex, alcohol, and meat are strictly forbidden. As cleanliness is considered to be of paramount importance, menstruating and pregnant women are not supposed to attend any of the rituals. The festival rules also call for impeccable mental and physical behavior as well as white clothing.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A small crowd seen during street procession in Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Young boys seen inside Bang Neow shrine during Phuket vegetarian festival. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.<br />
Participants of the festival adhere to a strict vegetarian diet for at least three days. This is one of the 10 main rules meant to ensure good hygiene and inner peace. Sex, alcohol, and meat are strictly forbidden. As cleanliness is considered to be of paramount importance, menstruating and pregnant women are not supposed to attend any of the rituals. The festival rules also call for impeccable mental and physical behavior as well as white clothing.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A young girl receive blessings during street procession in Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Onlookers watch an ongoing street procession during Phuket vegetarian festival. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the company’s example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A warrior is getting prepared for street procession at Sapam shrine. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A warrior is getting prepared for street procession at Sapam shrine. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A warrior seen with his team after a street procession in Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A man with a big tattoo seen during street procession in Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Onlookers receive blessings and good fortune through water coming from a small cart during street procession. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the company’s example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A warrior seen during street procession in Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Onlookers watch an ongoing street procession during Phuket vegetarian festival. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the company’s example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Warriors seen during street procession in Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.<br />
A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Onlookers watch an ongoing street procession during Phuket vegetarian festival. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the company’s example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A warrior passes out during street procession near Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.<br />
A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A warrior in costume seen during street procession in Phuket. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Street procession in Phuket town during Phuket vegetarian festival. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the company’s example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Warriors in costume seen during street procession in Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Street procession in Phuket. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.<br />
Participants of the festival adhere to a strict vegetarian diet for at least three days. This is one of the 10 main rules meant to ensure good hygiene and inner peace. Sex, alcohol, and meat are strictly forbidden. As cleanliness is considered to be of paramount importance, menstruating and pregnant women are not supposed to attend any of the rituals. The festival rules also call for impeccable mental and physical behavior as well as white clothing.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Warriors seen during street procession in Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.<br />
A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Warriors in costume seen during street procession in Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A warrior seen cuting himself with an ax during street procession. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.<br />
A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Warriors seen during street procession in Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.<br />
A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Street Procession starting at Choor Su Gong Naka Shrine in Phuket. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Traces of paper and blood seen on the ground during street procession in Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Onlookers watch as warriors prepare for street procession at Jang Ong shrine. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Street procession ending in Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Onlookers receive blessings during street procession.The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the company’s example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Warriors seen during street procession in Phuket town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.<br />
A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A warrior is getting prepared for street procession at Jang Ong shrine. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A warrior ready for street procession at Jang Ong shrine. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A warrior seen before street procession at Jang Ong shrine. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Street procession in Phuket town during Phuket vegetarian festival. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the company’s example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Street procession in Phuket town during Phuket vegetarian festival. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the company’s example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Street procession in Phuket town during Phuket vegetarian festival. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the company’s example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Street procession in Phuket town during Phuket vegetarian festival. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the company’s example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Onlookers watch an ongoing street procession during Phuket vegetarian festival. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the company’s example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Onlookers cover their ears while firecrackers explode during Phuket vegetarian festival. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the company’s example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A warrior ready for street procession at Bang Neow shrine. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • A warrior ready for street procession at Bang Neow shrine. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Warrior during street procession in Phuket. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_VegetarianFestival02.jpg
  • An onlooker pray during street procession. Onlookers can receive blessings from warriors during the procession. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.<br />
Participants of the festival adhere to a strict vegetarian diet for at least three days. This is one of the 10 main rules meant to ensure good hygiene and inner peace. Sex, alcohol, and meat are strictly forbidden. As cleanliness is considered to be of paramount importance, menstruating and pregnant women are not supposed to attend any of the rituals. The festival rules also call for impeccable mental and physical behavior as well as white clothing.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Locals in the street during Phuket Vegetarian Festival. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. Participants of the festival adhere to a strict vegetarian diet for at least three days. This is one of the 10 main rules meant to ensure good hygiene and inner peace. Sex, alcohol, and meat are strictly forbidden. As cleanliness is considered to be of paramount importance, menstruating and pregnant women are not supposed to attend any of the rituals. The festival rules also call for impeccable mental and physical behavior as well as white clothing.
    h_VegetarianFestival03.jpg
  • A warrior ready for street procession at Bang Neow shrine. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
  • Street procession in Phuket Town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_VegetarianFestival01.jpg
  • A warrior during a spiritual ritual in Phuket. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai The and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the companyÕs example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_VegetarianFestival05.jpg
  • A warrior dancing through Phuket Town during the Vegetarian Festival. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. Participants of the festival adhere to a strict vegetarian diet for at least three days. This is one of the 10 main rules meant to ensure good hygiene and inner peace. Sex, alcohol, and meat are strictly forbidden. As cleanliness is considered to be of paramount importance, menstruating and pregnant women are not supposed to attend any of the rituals. The festival rules also call for impeccable mental and physical behavior as well as white clothing.
    h_VegetarianFestival04.jpg
  • Streets of Phuket filled with smoke from the fireworks during the Vegetarian Festival. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_VegetarianFestival06.jpg
  • Locals praying inside a shrine during the Vegetarian Festival in Phuket, Thailand. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai The and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the companyÕs example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_VegetarianFestival07.jpg
  • A warrior in a state of trance. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_VegetarianFestival10.jpg
  • A pierced warrior during the Vegetarian Festival. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_VegetarianFestival09.jpg
  • Two pierced warriors during the Vegetarian Festival in Phuket, Thailand. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai The and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the companyÕs example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_VegetarianFestival12.jpg
  • A warrior gets pierced before the street procession during the Vegetarian Festival. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_VegetarianFestival08.jpg
  • Street procession in Phuket Town with warrior in foreground followed by helpers. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_VegetarianFestival15.jpg
  • Female participant during a street procession in Phuket Town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai The and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the companyÕs example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_VegetarianFestival17.jpg
  • Locals wearing white clothes wait for warriors during a street procession. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. Participants of the festival adhere to a strict vegetarian diet for at least three days. This is one of the 10 main rules meant to ensure good hygiene and inner peace. Sex, alcohol, and meat are strictly forbidden. As cleanliness is considered to be of paramount importance, menstruating and pregnant women are not supposed to attend any of the rituals. The festival rules also call for impeccable mental and physical behavior as well as white clothing.
    h_VegetarianFestival14.jpg
  • A pierced warrior during the Vegetarian Festival. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_VegetarianFestival11.jpg
  • Street procession in Phuket Town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. Participants of the festival adhere to a strict vegetarian diet for at least three days. This is one of the 10 main rules meant to ensure good hygiene and inner peace. Sex, alcohol, and meat are strictly forbidden. As cleanliness is considered to be of paramount importance, menstruating and pregnant women are not supposed to attend any of the rituals. The festival rules also call for impeccable mental and physical behavior as well as white clothing.
    h_VegetarianFestival18.jpg
  • Locals wearing white clothes wait for warriors during a street procession. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. Participants of the festival adhere to a strict vegetarian diet for at least three days. This is one of the 10 main rules meant to ensure good hygiene and inner peace. Sex, alcohol, and meat are strictly forbidden. As cleanliness is considered to be of paramount importance, menstruating and pregnant women are not supposed to attend any of the rituals. The festival rules also call for impeccable mental and physical behavior as well as white clothing.
    h_VegetarianFestival13.jpg
  • Locals of Phuket Town use fireworks to drive away evil spirits during the street procession. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_VegetarianFestival16.jpg
  • Fireworks during street procession. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_VegetarianFestival19.jpg
  • A warrior during a spiritual ritual in Phuket. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_VegetarianFestival22.jpg
  • Fireworks during street procession. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_VegetarianFestival20.jpg
  • Warriors preparing for fire-walking at the Vegetarian Festival. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. Participants of the festival adhere to a strict vegetarian diet for at least three days. This is one of the 10 main rules meant to ensure good hygiene and inner peace. Sex, alcohol, and meat are strictly forbidden. As cleanliness is considered to be of paramount importance, menstruating and pregnant women are not supposed to attend any of the rituals. The festival rules also call for impeccable mental and physical behavior as well as white clothing.
    h_VegetarianFestival25.jpg
  • Warriors preparing for fire-walking at the Vegetarian Festival. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. Participants of the festival adhere to a strict vegetarian diet for at least three days. This is one of the 10 main rules meant to ensure good hygiene and inner peace. Sex, alcohol, and meat are strictly forbidden. As cleanliness is considered to be of paramount importance, menstruating and pregnant women are not supposed to attend any of the rituals. The festival rules also call for impeccable mental and physical behavior as well as white clothing.
    h_VegetarianFestival24.jpg
  • Walking on fire at the Vegetarian Festival in Phuket, Thailand. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_VegetarianFestival26.jpg
  • Locals watching the last street procession. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise
    h_VegetarianFestival28.jpg
  • Bladed ladder climbing in Phuket Town, Thailand. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_VegetarianFestival23.jpg
  • h_VegetarianFestival21.jpg
  • Crowds gather in Phuket Town during the last day of the festival. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_VegetarianFestival27.jpg
  • Street procession in Phuket Town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_VegetarianFestival30.jpg
  • Locals watching the last street procession. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise
    h_VegetarianFestival29.jpg
  • Locals watching the festival in Phuket Town. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai The and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the companyÕs example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_VegetarianFestival31.jpg
  • Locals watching the festival in Phuket Town, from a safe distance. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. Participants of the festival adhere to a strict vegetarian diet for at least three days. This is one of the 10 main rules meant to ensure good hygiene and inner peace. Sex, alcohol, and meat are strictly forbidden. As cleanliness is considered to be of paramount importance, menstruating and pregnant women are not supposed to attend any of the rituals. The festival rules also call for impeccable mental and physical behavior as well as white clothing.
    h_VegetarianFestival32.jpg
  • A girl watch the last day of the Vegetarian Festival. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_VegetarianFestival33.jpg
  • Kids playing with fireworks at during the Vegetarian Festival. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making.
    h_VegetarianFestival34.jpg
  • A boy plays with fireworks during the Vegetarian Festival in Thailand. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai The and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the companyÕs example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_VegetarianFestival35.jpg
  • Kids watching fireworks during the Vegetarian Festival in Phuket, Thailand. Every year during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival kicks off. The religious festival in Phuket, Thailand, lasts for 10 days, during which sacred rituals take place in the many Chinese shrines and temples. Walking on fire and climbing ladders with bladed rungs barefoot are two of several rituals believed to bring good fortune. The main purpose of the festival, however, is spiritual cleansing and merit-making. A chosen few among the participants, called warriors, will pierce themselves with objects such as nails, swords, and knives. The piercing takes place in a shrine and is followed by the most spectacular part of the festival, the street processions: just like in a parade they file along the streets of Phuket, with groups of one or several pierced warriors leading a number of people behind them. Onlookers throw fireworks at them as they pass; these are intended to be as loud as possible as the common belief is that this will banish evil spirits. The warriors walk and dance in a trance-like state, unshaken by the noise.
    h_VegetarianFestival36.jpg
  • People from the public seen at Bang Neow shrine in Phuket town during Phuket vegetarian festival. The origins of the festival date back to 1825, when a traveling Chinese opera company came to Phuket to perform for the miners there. An epidemic broke out and as the members of the company fell sick, they adhered to a vegetarian diet to honor two of the Emperor Gods, Kiew Ong Tai Teh and Yok Ong Sone Teh. When they became well again shortly thereafter, the people of Phuket followed the company’s example - and have celebrated the festival ever since to bring good luck to their communities.
    h_Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2013okt...jpg
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