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.
On this day 段宗膀, the Benzhu of Shangyangxi, is escorted back to his home village after spending about a month in Majiuyi.
The festival starts in the morning in Fengshangzhong Benzhu Temple where people gather to then walk the Benzhu all the way back to Shangyangxi, setting off before noon.
Shangyangxi Benzhu Temple 上阳溪村本主庙 |
Name | Date |
---|---|
Raosanling in Majiuyi 绕三灵 | 12 June 2023 |