Dong Thap holds Hung Kings’ Commemoration Ceremony

(DTO) On the afternoon of April 24 (the 8th day of the third lunar month), the Dong Thap Provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism held a solemn ceremony at the Provincial Museum to commemorate the Hung Kings.

The event was attended by Mr. Pham Thanh Ngai, Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee and Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee; Mr. Pham Van Chuan, Standing Vice Chairman of the Provincial People’s Council; and Mr. Huynh Minh Tuan, Vice Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee; along with representatives from various sectors, socio-political organizations, and local residents.

     "Wherever one may go near or far,
     Remember the Ancestor's Anniversary on the 10th of the third month.
     No matter how far your trade may take you,
     Remember to return for the Ancestor's Anniversary in the third month."

These verses serve as a reminder for Vietnamese people to honour the Hung Kings and ancestors who founded the nation over thousands of years, while upholding the tradition of “remembering one’s roots” – a core cultural value passed down through generations, both at home and among overseas Vietnamese communities.

At the ritual, Chairman Pham Thanh Ngai beat the ceremonial drum to open the event, while leaders of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism delivered the commemorative oration. In a respectful atmosphere, delegates offered incense to pay tribute to the National Ancestors.

According to the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the ceremony aims to honour the Hung Kings, the nation’s founders, and national heroes who contributed to building and defending the country. It has become an annual cultural activity, promoting awareness of Vietnam’s historical and cultural traditions, while encouraging local people to strive for socio-economic development and contribute to building a prosperous homeland. 

This year’s ceremony holds special significance as it is the first held by Dong Thap following administrative restructuring, symbolising a continuous cultural stream that connects past, present and future, and reaffirms the province’s historical and cultural continuity. The ceremony was conducted with solemn rituals, creating a sacred and respectful atmosphere to express deep gratitude to the Hung Kings and ancestors.

In 2007, the National Assembly of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam officially designated the 10th day of the third lunar month each year as Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day. In 2011, Tien Giang province – now Dong Thap province – selected the provincial Museum as the site for the Hung Kings’ altar, facilitating public access for incense offerings.

By QUE ANH
Translated by X.QUANG