Benzhu Worship
Benzhu are local protector deities in the Dali area, their worship is a key element of Bai identity.
In the Dali area, almost every Bai village has a Benzhu Temple, the home of a local protector spirit. These protector spirits are mostly historic figures, such as local heros, kings, generals or others who have through good deeds won the adulation of the local population.
Each Benzhu usually has his own festival day, with activities varying greatly from place to place.
The temple lies in the military area above Zhonghe village on the slope of Cangshan. This is a pretty lively Benzhu festival, with the Dongjing Music ritual performed and dances in front of the temple.
Cangshan Temple 苍山圣祠 |
Name | Date |
---|---|
Bai Torch Festival 白族火把节 | 11 Aug. 2023 |
Dali Torch Festival 大理古城火把节 | 11 Aug. 2023 |
Caishen Birthday 财神爷诞辰 | 17 Sept. 2023 |