Who would not be enticed to enter such spectacular facade leading to a street of festivities?
It was half hour past 4 in the afternoon last Saturday when we reached Lebuh Chulia (Chulia Street) in George Town, Pulau Pinang to celebrate the diversities of 3 predominant races here in this side of Malaysia.
the Malays…
the Indians…
and the Chinese…
The year of the rabbit has officially ushered in and they have the occasion here in Penang for 15-long days of merry making, fireworks and whatnot that started last February 3 and will end today, the 17th. Part 0f the reasons for the event was to commemorate the inclusion of George Town as one of the UNESCO’s World Heritage Cities (read : Penang Island is a must visit!).
The theme for this year big event’s T’sai Shen Tau which means The God of Prosperity has arrived…
As everyone began to trooped to this group of chinky-eyed males clad in orange, Dr. Yambao, Dr. Carlo and I positioned ourselves to capture such unique street procession called CHINGAY…
“Chingay originated from China, and the Penang Chinese first performed Chingay during deity processions. It is a street art where the performer balances a giant flag that ranges from 25 ft to 32 ft in height and about 60 pounds in weight.”
Every attempt to throw the bamboo pole to the air and catch and balance it on someone’s forehead was done harmoniously with the beat of the drums and cymbals played by these Chinese of younger generation…
Look at the pure reaction of amazement from these kids…
All in all, this very first photo-walk with colleague-friends, Dr. Yambao and Dr. Carlo was a day well spent.
We witnessed unity amidst diversities in Penang.
It was tiring but our experience remains priceless.
Indeed, the God of prosperity has arrived…
—————————————o
Read the first 2 parts of this series :
—————————————o
OPINION COUNTS…