♦ M.A. Dang Thi Anh Tuyet

thuongIn the heroic flow of Vietnamese history, the uprising led by the Trung Sisters in 40 AD stands as a brilliant milestone, initiating a tradition of indomitable struggle against foreign invaders. The Trung Sisters, Trung Trac and Trung Nhi, have become eternal symbols of patriotism and the resilient spirit of Vietnamese women in particular and the Vietnamese people in general. In commemoration of their immense contributions, a temple dedicated to the Trung Sisters was established in Ha Loi village, Me Linh commune, Hanoi city. The Hai Ba Trung Temple Festival is a long-standing and significant event for the local populace. Held annually, it is a cultural and spiritual event attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

thuongThe main festival is held annually on lunar January 6, commemorating the day the Trung Sisters commenced their uprising and led their troops to battle the enemy. Festive activities can extend from the 4th to the 10th day of the first lunar month and take place in the Special National Relic Site of the Hai Ba Trung Temple in Ha Loi village, Me Linh commune, Hanoi. This sacred temple is the main place of worship, linked to important historical vestiges such as the Trung Sisters’ Tombs, Mat Voi (Elephant Eye) Pond, and Thanh Ong. 

thuongOver 2000 years ago, under the brutal domination of the Eastern Han dynasty, our people lived in misery and suffering. Thi Sach, the husband of Trung Trac, was killed by Governor To Dinh. Personal grief intertwined with national indignation spurred Trung Trac, Trung Nhi, and their generals, such as Lady Le Chan and Lady Bat Nan, to rise in rebellion. From the land of Me Linh, the resounding beats of bronze drums rallied heroes from across the region to gather for the righteous cause. The uprising achieved brilliant success; Trung Trac ascended to the throne (Queen Trung) and established the capital at Me Linh, ushering in the first era of independence after the period of Northern domination. The establishment of temples dedicated to the Trung Sisters by the people in many places, particularly in Me Linh, demonstrates profound respect and remembrance for the immense contributions of these heroes, who sacrificed themselves for the nation's independence and freedom.

thuongThe Hai Ba Trung Temple Festival is solemnly organized, harmoniously combining traditional ceremonial rituals with vibrant festival activities, recreating the heroic atmosphere of the historic uprising.

thuongThe ceremonial part follows ancient rituals that express the reverence of descendants towards their ancestors, among which the most important and magnificent is the palanquin procession. Featuring flags, ceremonial parasols, golden canopies, and hundreds of participants in traditional attire, the procession departs from Ha Loi village communal house to the main temple. It reenacts the army of the Trung Sisters, creating a solemn and vividly evocative scene. During the incense offering and worship ceremonies, representatives, including central and Hanoi City leaders, local authorities, and the people, solemnly offer incense and tributes to the Trung Sisters and their generals. The rituals are performed in accordance with traditional customs, accompanied by ceremonial texts praising their virtues and achievements. Notably, the historical reenactment performance is a highlight within the festival, recreating historical scenes from the uprising, from the flag-offering ceremony and troop deployment to the final victory. The resonant sound of bronze drums, combined with proclamations, songs, and dances, evokes national pride in every attendee.

thuongThe festive part attracts large crowds of locals and tourists through numerous traditional folk games (such as wrestling, cockfighting, human chess, boat racing on the lake, and throwing cotton ball game) as well as diverse cultural activities. These include a special art program titled “Echoes of Me Linh”, which is typically held on the opening night, featuring cheo, ca tru ceremonial singing, and folk dances praising the Trung Sisters’ achievements. Cultural exhibitions are also organized, displaying and introducing local history and the role of Vietnamese women throughout different periods, thereby contributing to educating the younger generation about traditions.

thuongThe Hai Ba Trung Temple Festival embodies profound educational value in nurturing patriotic traditions. It offers an opportunity for every Vietnamese, especially the youth, to revisit heroic history, remember the merits of their ancestors, and express the moral principle of “Be grateful for what you have”, thereby fostering patriotism and a strong commitment to national defense. Preserving and promoting the festival’s cultural identity contributes to the protection and promotion of traditional cultural values and ethical norms. The festival, organized with mass participation, fosters strong community cohesion. Currently, the continuation of this traditional festival also aims at developing spiritual tourism, attracting domestic and international visitors for sightseeing and historical exploration, hence contributing to local economic development.

thuongThe Hai Ba Trung Temple Festival (Me Linh commune, Hanoi) is not merely an annual event but also a long-standing cultural tradition of Hanoi’s people and the entire nation. It serves as a reminder of a glorious historical period, of the patriotic tradition, and the heroic spirit of the ancestors. Through the festival, the noble traditional values of the nation are preserved, promoted, and passed down to future generations./.