Discovering the Beauty of Gua Village Festival

The Gua Village Festival is a vibrant cultural tapestry of Ha Nam province, deeply rooted in tradition and spirituality. It’s not only an occasion for locals to honor national heroes but also an event that attracts countless visitors with its harmonious blend of solemn rituals and lively folk activities. Held on the 4th day of the Lunar New Year, the festival is a tribute to the remarkable General Truong Viet Nguyen.

Gua Temple – A Historical and Cultural Landmark

Nestled in Gua Song hamlet, Liem Thuan commune, Thanh Liem district, Gua Temple stands out amidst its serene surroundings, shaded by lush ancient trees. This historic temple is dedicated to three generals of the Hung Kings era and General Truong Viet Nguyen, who played a pivotal role in the nation’s unification.
According to local legend, ancestors of the Nguyen and Dac families migrated from the north to An Cu and An Cu villages to reclaim land. Facing recurring natural disasters, they constructed a temple to honor the Hung Kings’ generals, seeking their blessings and preserving ties to their homeland. Born on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month in the Year of the Dog, Truong Viet Nguyen was described as intelligent and talented, excelling in both literature and martial arts. He joined Dinh Bo Linh to quell the rebellion of the 12 warlords, achieving numerous victories. After peace was restored, he returned to his homeland to care for his parents and contribute to the local community. The people of Gua Song built a temple at his burial site to commemorate his immense contributions.

The Unique Traditional Beauty of Gua Village’s Ball Wrestling Festival

Cultural Significance

The ball wrestling festival, also known as “vo cau” or “cuop cau,” is a distinctive cultural event held annually on the 4th day of the Lunar New Year. Legend links this day to the departure of General Truong Viet Nguyen as he set out to battle the 12 warlords. The festival not only honors the general’s contributions but also serves as a prayer for prosperity, abundant harvests, and communal well-being.

Solemn Rituals
 

The morning begins with a ceremonial offering at the temple, where the village elders perform rituals to pray for peace and blessings. Villagers then share sacred offerings among themselves. In the afternoon, the festival reaches its peak with the ball wrestling competition, as the village’s young men eagerly gather to participate in this ritualistic yet physically demanding event.
 

A wooden ball, roughly the size of a pomelo, is carried out by the village elders in a solemn procession to the temple’s veranda. The referee, chosen for their integrity and knowledge, announces the start of the game before tossing the ball onto the field. Participants scramble to seize the ball, running three laps around the temple amidst cheers and applause. After the ritual, the ball is cleaned and placed back in its revered position.

Festive Activities and Community Spirit
 

Beyond the ball wrestling, the festival also features wrestling matches held within the temple courtyard, where local athletes demonstrate their skills as an offering to the spirits and a wish for good fortune. Traditional games like tug-of-war, monkey bridge walking, and duck catching add to the festive atmosphere, fostering community bonds.

According to folklore, the ball wrestling tradition originates from General Truong Viet Nguyen’s childhood, where he and his friends practiced agility by competing to grab roasted pomelos. Over time, this practice evolved into a symbolic ritual of prosperity and harmony.

The Gua Village Festival not only preserves historical and spiritual values but also sustains traditional identity across generations. With its unique rituals, vibrant atmosphere, and enthusiastic community participation, the festival has become a symbol of unity and cultural pride for the people of Ha Nam.
If you’re planning to experience the Gua Village Festival and explore the charm of Ha Nam, don’t forget to choose Tien Loc Palace Hotel for a comfortable and convenient stay. Book your room today to immerse yourself in one of the most unique festivals of this culturally rich region!
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