BON ODORI

Perhaps some of you reading this have heard or been to this festival. For me, I've only been to it once. But for those who heard of this festival or have participated in it before for many times already, do you know how this festival come about? Like all festivals, there is always an interesting story in it. Here's some info I got from another website.

The Bon Odori FestivalOver a two day period July or August many Japanese American communities celebrate the Bon Odori Festival. This Buddhist dance festival is celebrated as a reminder of the gratefulness one should feel toward their ancestors. Bon Odori originates from the story of a Buddhist disciple who envisioned his deceased mother in the Realm of Hungry Ghosts where she was endulging in her own selfishness. Greatly disturbed, he went to Buddha and asked how he could release his mother from this realm. Buddha advised his disciple to perform some charitable act in memory of his mother. The disciple did this and, thus, saw his mother's release for the Realm of Hungry Ghosts. He also began to see the true nature of her past unselfishness and the many sacrifices that she had made for him. The disciple, happy because of his mother's release and grateful for his mother's kindness, danced with joy. From this dance of joy comes Bon Odori or Bon Dance, a time in which our ancestors and their sacrifices are remembered and appreciated.
Today the Bon Odori Festival participants continue this custom as they dance in traditional Japanese dress, including kimonos, yukata (cotton kimonos), and hopi coats (short coats styled like a kimono top). The dances may include the use of fans, castinets, straw hats or cotton towels and recall both daily life in Japan and rememberance of ancestors.
There is also a variety of other activities to take part in at the festival. Many of the Buddhist Churches hosting the Bon Odori Festivals will offer tours of the church and explanations of Buddhist practices. There are also performances throughout the day by community music groups including band music and taiko, Japanese Performance Drumming. Usually a variety of Japanese foods and crafts as well as games for both adults and children are also offered.

For those who wants to experience it, there's one in Malaysia at Mashushitta Stadium on 12th of July at night. I'm not sure about the time it starts but i guess it's around 8pm. So go there and have some fun!!!