VietNamNet Bridge – The Chua Ba festival in the southern province of Binh Duong draws millions of visitors in the first lunar month. This is the business season for fake monks.

On the 15^th of the first lunar month, visitors from southern provinces go to the

pagoda (in Thu Dau Mot town) to pray for prosperity, good luck and good fortune

in the new year. On the day, dozens of “Buddhist monks” queue at the gate to beg for alms.

The local Buddhist Shangha bans monks from begging for alms at pagodas but

at the festival, “monks” work day and night.

They stand at the gate to beg for alms from every pilgrim.

They also shave their heads and put on monk’s robes. However, they are fake monks.

Divination books are sold at the pagoda’s gate.

Beggars and lottery vendors.

Chua Ba festival in pictures:

The festival was previously organized for Chinese Vietnamese in Binh Duong province.

However, it has become the festival of southern people.

The Goddess of Ba pagoda in procession.

Chinese actors disguise themselves as gods and fairies.

The procession often takes three hours.

Along the road, traders stand to pray for good luck and good business.

Disguised gods and fairies deliver mannas to people.

The festival attracts millions of visitors.

Photo: VNE