The Hungry Ghost

Taxi rides can be not only be expensive but at the same time very knowledgeable in Singapore. One such interesting conversation with Mr Halim a month ago gave me ideas to scribble on my blog. Mr Halim enlightened me about the unknown cultures in Singapore. He told me about the Chinese festival which I will share now as explained to me by him . A very sincere thanks Mr Halim. Its people like you who make our lives comfortable here..

The Ghost Festival, also known as the Hungry Ghost Festival, is a traditional Chinese festival and holiday celebrated by Chinese.This July ending starts the Ghost month according to the Chinese calendar. As the name suggets the ghosts and the spirits come out during this time from the underworld .The deceased ancestors are supposed to be visiting their loved ones and roam around the land during this month. Spooky huh?

From 31 July 2011 to 28 August 2011 will be the ghost month this year. the doors for the heaven and earth will be open to the world of living.The chinese prepare for the month by ritualistic food offerings, burning incense, and burning joss paper for the ancestors.Grand mealswould be served with empty seats for each of the deceased  treating the deceased as if they are still living.

Theres ofcourse history and story behind it which is not very clear to me as the taxi ride was quite a short one.The ghosts are supposed to have thin necks as they havent been fed and haven't been given a proper send off. So food and entertainment is arranged for the ghosts this time of the year to pay tribute to the dead.
The best part is performances , entertainment is held and the first few rows of seats are left empty for the ghosts - the special guests! Music and performances are to entertain the deprived ghosts from the unknown world.Some shops are closed to leave the street empty for the ghosts to wander.

Sounds a little like the Chinese version of Halloween? The children are not allowed to roam about after late hours. Swimming is also avoided for the fear of being drowned by the evil ghosts!Chinese avoid travelling, starting a new venture or anything auspicious during this month.They try to please the unknown ghosts to avoid bad luck.

I am looking forward to this festival of the Chinese and post more pictures soon. Excited and intrigued!