The Islamic Cham people in the central province of Binh Thuan officiallylaunched a month-long festival to welcome their Ramuwan (New Year)festival on July 7.
On this occasion, which is thebiggest festival of the Islamic community in the province, all IslamicCham families gather to pay respect to their ancestors and pray forhappiness, bumper crops and peace.
The festivalopened with the ritual of paying tribute to ancestors at their gravesand then each family holds ceremonies at home in commemoration of theirancestors.
In recent years, the festival hasattracted lots of tourists and researchers both at home and abroad whowant to explore the special cultural characteristics of the Islamic Chamcommunity in Binh Thuan.
On the occasion,the provincial People’s Committee has instructed cities and districts aswell as relevant ministries and agencies to create favourableconditions for the organisation of the festival.
Provincialleaders visit Islamic Cham dignitaries at temples and mosques in theprovince to extend their New Year greetings.
Cultural and sporting activities are also held within the framework of the festival.
Binh Thuan province is home to 41,000 Cham ethnic people, of whom 15,000 are Muslims and the remaining are Brahmins.-VNA