This ancient contest demonstrates gratitude for rice among people in Hanoi. The lively and funky rice cooking contest was organized on the 8th day of the first lunar month [January 29] in Thi Cam Village, Xuan Phuong Ward, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi. This yearly competition is aimed to pay tribute to General Phan Tay Nhac, who lived under the regime of the 18th Hung King, 285 BC, the tutelary God of Thi Cam Village. The custom also prays for a prosperous, happy, and peaceful new year. The contest consists of three main parts: lighting the fire, fetching water, and cooking the rice. The event takes place in the village's temple. This year’s contest draws the participation of four teams, corresponding to four neighborhood groups in the ward. Cooking utensils and wood for the rice cooking competition are well prepared by the contestants. The bamboo sticks are stripped, while the straw is bundled to catch fire easily. … [Read more...] about Exploring unique Thi Cam Rice Cooking Contest in Hanoi