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By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Jan 12: The spirit of Chinese New Year roared to life as 18 new lions were symbolically awakened through a traditional eye-dotting ceremony at the historic Hong San Si Temple at Wayang Street here today.
The temple courtyard transformed into a vibrant sea of colour and anticipation as the lions, adorned with intricate designs and vibrant hues, lay poised for their ceremonial awakening.
At 1pm, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, joined by dignitaries, performed the revered ritual.
With steady hands, they painted cinnabar dots on the lions’ eyes, noses, and ears, a gesture believed to infuse vitality, courage, and prosperity for the Year of the Snake.
Each stroke of the brush, accompanied by the resonant beats of drums and the clash of cymbals, seemed to breathe life into the lions.
As the music reached its crescendo, the lions sprang into motion, their first dance marking a jubilant start to the festivities.
The eye-dotting ritual, or kai guang, is a cherished tradition in Chinese culture. Beyond its symbolic significance of awakening the lions, it is a spiritual act meant to invite blessings, dispel negativity, and usher in fortune for the new year.
The event concluded with a dynamic lion dance performance by the Hongyang Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe and Jixiang Ruyi Hakka Southern Lion Troupe.
Their synchronised movements, energetic leaps, and vibrant displays captivated the crowd, setting an auspicious tone for the upcoming festivities.
The lively celebration left attendees in awe, with many capturing the moment as a keepsake of this meaningful tradition. – DayakDaily
