By James Carlo Santiago
Tik. Tok tik. As hours have passed and being at home seems boring, I decided to go out and get some fresh air. An old lady passed by and greeted me with this phrase: “Kung hei fat choi! "That's when I realized today was a grand day, but have you ever wondered what “Kung hei fat choi!" means? It's a phrase that Filipinos love to use during the Chinese New Year or a short way of saying congratulations and best wishes for a prosperous New Year.
A tornado of vivid colors, pulsing rhythms, and enticing smells that shines as a testament to cultural grandeur and world peace. This annual extravaganza, steeped in the values of family, prosperity, and renewal, captivates Filipinos from bustling city centers to vibrant Chinatowns.
Cultural magnificence and celebratory enthusiasm are a combination of ancient traditions and modern celebration. This yearly event, which has its roots in legendary stories of overcoming hardship, pulses with the rhythm of the moon, and heralds a season of regeneration and renewal, is celebrated today.
A symphony of color and melody fills the streets as the first rays of the New Year's sun peek over the horizon. Onlookers are enthralled by the captivating beat of the dragon and lion dances, and the air is charged with excitement and delight as firecrackers crackle. Every area of the city, from thriving marketplaces to imposing temples, teems with festivity, beckoning everyone to join in the fun.
Filipino-Chinese groups in the Philippines add their special touch to the celebrations by fusing traditional rites with native practices. Every element of the celebration, from the delectable aroma of traditional foods to the deafening roar of fireworks, represents the spirit of wealth and community. The celebrations are made more profound and meaningful by the zodiac animal symbolism, which is deeply ingrained in Filipino-Chinese culture. Vibrant parades and cultural events also capture the attention of spectators from far and wide.
Even though this holiday is widely known as "Chinese New Year" in the West, it is not just observed in China. Millions of people throughout the world celebrate the Lunar New Year, commonly referred to as the Spring Festival, which is the longest and most widely observed Asian holiday.
A potent symbol of resiliency and rejuvenation, the colorful celebrations of the Chinese New Year are left behind. These age-old customs serve as enlightening lights in an uncertain world, encouraging us to welcome fresh starts with open arms and hopeful spirits. Let's therefore continue the spirit of harmony, wealth, and limitless opportunities that this event reflects as we bid the old year farewell and usher in the Year of the Dragon. A brilliant year full of happiness, plenty, and limitless possibilities is ahead of us.
Happy Chinese New Year!