The Linh Son Thanh Mau Festival stands as the paramount celebration at Ba Den Mountain, drawing numerous tourists and pilgrims from all corners of the country. Spanning centuries, this ceremony has evolved into a revered legacy, imbued with myriad distinctive cultural and spiritual significance.

Origin of the festival in Ba Den Mountain

The Linh Son Thanh Mau ceremony is associated with mystical spiritual tales, with one particularly notable legend revolving around Ly Thi Thien Huong's resolute determination. It is said that during the 18th century, in what is now Trang Bang, the governor of Hoang Hoa had a daughter renowned for her kindness and virtue, named Ly Thi Thien Huong. Her unmatched qualities drew the admiration of numerous suitors from the vicinity, all vying for her hand in marriage.

Once when she was besieged by an evil tyrant, she was saved by the hero Le Si Triet and promised to be married to him. However, in response to Nguyen Anh's summons, he had to join the army and leave Thien Huong waiting at home. Unfortunately, when she went up the mountain to pay her respects to Buddha, an evil person attempted to harm her, and was forced to jump into a deep pit.

The Linh Son Thanh Mau Festival is intertwined with mystical spiritual narratives

Following her passing, Thien Huong became a fairy, manifesting in the guise of a black girl in dreams. Revered elders frequently recount her ability to forewarn calamities and steer individuals away from perilous circumstances, attributing her intervention to their survival.

Consequently, the indigenous populace commenced venerating her as Linh Son Thanh Mau, christening the site Ba Den Mountain. Historical records affirm the continuity of the Mother's Day ceremony for over three centuries, underscoring its enduring significance in the cultural tapestry.

Location and time of the Linh Son Thanh Mau Festival

According to annual practice, the festival is held from the 4th to the 6th of the 5th lunar month at Linh Son Tien Thach Pagoda and Linh Son Thanh Mau Palace. The reason the ceremony lasted for 3 days comes from the legend that  Lady Ly Thi Thien Huong had an epiphany to inform Monk Tri Tan about her passing. At that time, her mortal body had been in the deep hole for 3 days but was still intact.

The festival occurs between the 4th and 6th days of the 5th lunar month

Activities you should not miss when attending the event

During the festival, visitors to Ba Den Mountain shouldn't miss these spectacular activities.

Inquiring for fortune to experiencing good fortune and tranquility

In addition to requesting water, flowers, towels, or offerings, visitors at Linh Son Thanh Mau Palace can also seek "loc", a small package containing white rice or loose change delicately wrapped in paper, believed to bestow luck and tranquility upon the recipient. This sacred site frequently witnesses heartfelt prayers from pilgrims seeking blessings for peace, prosperity, love, and the well-being of children, among other sincere aspirations.

Visitors joining the Linh Son Thanh Mau Festival can also seek "loc"

Listen to the sermon about the legend of Linh Son Thanh Mau

Attendees can engage in a comprehensive sermon recounting the legend of Linh Son Thanh Mau, offering deeper insight into her significance within Buddhist philosophy and worship customs at Tay Ninh's Ba Den mountain. At the 2023 ceremony, Master Thich Nu Dieu Hai, Deputy Head of the Ba Mountain Pagoda system, presided over the Dharma lecture, enhancing the spiritual experience for all participants.

Attendees can join a detailed sermon recounting the legend of Linh Son Thanh Mau

Meet the head of the Ba Den Pagoda system

Normally, the Head of the Ba Pagoda system - Master Thich Nu Dieu Nghia will visit and engage with tourists at Ba Den Mountain on the main day (5th day of the 5th lunar month). Having entered the resistance war at 17, she played a pivotal role in restoring the post-war Ba Pagoda system and has devoted her life to volunteer activities. She is an exemplary example of a true monk with a good lifestyle.

Master Thich Nu Dieu Nghia will interact with tourists on the main day of the Linh Son Thanh Mau Festival

Enjoy many artistic displays at the Linh Son Thanh Mau Festival

During the evenings of the 4th and 5th, various folk performances including the golden tray dance, bong roi dance, and cai luong (cairojess) are showcased. These performances serve as a tribute to Linh Son Thanh Mau, embodying the tradition of mother worship while also promoting the art of Southern amateur music, thereby enriching cultural expression and heritage.

The event features diverse folk performances such as the golden tray dance, shadow dance, and cai luong

The Linh Son Thanh Mau Festival, a cherished cultural tradition in Tay Ninh, offers a unique glimpse into the region's spiritual heritage. If you travel to Tay Ninh during the festival, don't miss the chance to participate and witness the vibrant rituals, and colorful processions that define this remarkable event.