Every country has its glorious history that it celebrates with patriotism that the countrymen feel immensely. On 19th April is the ‘Gio To Hung Vuong Day’, Vietnams most patriotic day. On this day the nation commemorates their great ancestors, the kings of Hung Dynasty. Emperor Hung Vuong founded Vietnam as a nation almost 50 centuries ago.
Somewhere in the 250 BC A Hung Vuong National Altar or more popularly known as ‘Hung temple’ was built in Phu Tho (North Vietnam) to honor the founding fathers of Vietnam. Since that era itself tourist and Vietnamese would travel here and pay respect to their ancestors. Somehow during the colonial time the ritual saw a setback due the oppression of other cultures. The Vietnam government declared this day as a national holiday in 2007.
The Hung kings played a significant role in not just establishing Vietnam as a country but also sustaining its unique individuality and culture. The kings wisely built diplomatic relations with China. This ensured safety against Chinese invasions and cultural influences. The Hung kings’ outstanding achievements in setting up an individual; administrative, social and economic rule is also much appreciated by historians.
The ‘Gio To Hung Vuong Day’ occurs on the 10th of March on the lunar calendar. Every year people of Vietnamese origin situated away from their country observe this day in their own capacity. Some travel back to their motherland and reunite with their families and countrymen. The Hung temple is the place of worship for Hung Vuong, Hence the celebration take place there. The day is celebrated by conducting special colorful parade, procession of traditional cakes (Banh Chung – a rice pie…), “Xoan” folk song contest, bronze drum beating, etc. HKS Designer and Consultant International Company Ltd wishes our Vietnamese friends on this glorious day. Let us pay our respect to the brave kings of yore who gave us this wonderful present of today.
