As the lunar calendar counts down to the Chinese New Year, fishermen in Sansha—China's southernmost island city—are stirring up waves of tradition! 🌊 With the Year of the Snake slithering in, locals gathered for a vibrant ceremony honoring the legendary '108 Brothers,' ancestral sea guardians believed to protect sailors and ensure bountiful hauls.
💨 Smoke from incense swirled as offerings of fruit and rice cakes piled high, blending ancient maritime folklore with modern hopes for safe voyages. 'It’s like our version of a TikTok trend—but 500 years old,' joked one young participant, balancing respect for heritage with Gen-Z flair.
📜 The '108 Brothers' legend, reminiscent of a seafaring Avengers squad, traces back to Ming Dynasty traders who perished in a storm. Their collective spirit now symbolizes unity for Sansha’s tight-knit fishing communities. Amid rising tourism and tech-driven fisheries, these rituals anchor residents to their roots—proving that even in 2024, tradition sails on. 🚤✨
Reference(s):
Sansha fishermen honor their ancestry to welcome the New Year
cgtn.com