Traditional festival honors symbol of Vietnam–Laos solidarity

On April 19, at the Thượng – Hạ shrine complex (Tây Hoa Lư ward, Ninh Bình province), the traditional festival of the Shrine of Princess Nhồi Hoa for 2026 officially opened. In the sacred space of the shrine complex, the opening ceremony of the 2026 festival was held solemnly, reflecting the rich cultural heritage. Attending the ceremony were Ms. Khamphao Ernthavanh, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to Vietnam; Mr. Đặng Thanh Sơn, Vice Chairman of the Ninh Bình Provincial People’s Committee, along with representatives from ministries, departments, and a large number of local residents and visitors. The festival is not only a time to honor the Princess Nhồi Hoa’s contributions but also a living testament to the close-knit bond between Vietnam and Laos, forged through history and carried forward to today. Historical imprint and symbol of unity According to historical records, in the 15th century under the reign of Lê Thánh Tông, the Lao princess (in Vietnamese transliteration Nhồi Hoa) followed her father’s orders and brought hundreds of elephants to Đại Việt to assist in training elephant troops, contributing significantly to the effort to repel foreign invaders. After completing her mission, on the way back, the princess fell ill and died at the hill area of the temple, in what is now the Tây Hoa Lư ward. In tribute to her sacrifice and great contributions, Lê Thánh Tông ordered the construction of her mausoleum and the temple at the place of her death. Delegates performed the incense-offering ceremony at the Shrine of Princess Nhồi Hoa. Over centuries, the site has been preserved with many edicts and valuable ritual items from the Nguyễn era. In 2007, it was recognized as a provincial historic site, becoming an important spiritual destination linked with the history of exchange and solidarity between the two nations. At the opening ceremony, Ambassador Khamphao Ernthavanh expressed deep gratitude to the local authorities and people of Ninh Bình for safeguarding this sacred site for centuries. The ambassador stressed that this is not only a historic site but also a sacred symbol of Vietnam–Laos solidarity. Notably, the ambassador said the Lao Embassy would closely cooperate with Ninh Bình province to advance procedures to recognize the Shrine of Princess Nhồi Hoa as a National Historic Site. If recognized, this would be a milestone, helping to honor the site’s historical and cultural value and reaffirm the solidarity and close ties between the two Parties, two States, and the peoples of the two countries. Mrs. Khamphao Ernthavanh, Ambassador of the Lao PDR to Vietnam, speaking at the opening ceremony. At the event, Mr. Đặng Thanh Sơn, Vice Chairman of Ninh Bình Province, affirmed that hosting the festival is not only a duty to preserve the heritage but also a bridge to strengthen the Vietnam–Laos friendship “forever green, forever sustainable.” The province will continue to direct the conservation of the site together with sustainable cultural and spiritual tourism development. Festival space rich in cultural identity The 2026 festival took place in a formal atmosphere, with vibrant cultural colors from the two nations, Vietnam and Laos, featuring a range of activities. The highlight of the ceremonial portion is the traditional processional rite, where the procession bears the tablet of Đức Thánh Quý Minh Đại Vương from the Lower Temple to the Upper Temple. The rite was organized solemnly, recreating distinctive religious beliefs of the region’s residents, attracting many locals and visitors. The traditional rites were performed according to formal ritual, expressing reverence and gratitude for Princess Nhồi Hoa, who contributed to fostering friendship between the two peoples for centuries. In addition, the festival’s arts program offered lively cultural performances. Dances and songs from Vietnam and Laos were carefully staged, reflecting the cultural exchange between the two nations. The performances not only have artistic value but also help spread the message of solidarity and enduring unity. According to reports, from early morning, a large number of locals and visitors had gathered at the site to participate in the festival. The atmosphere was vibrant with flags, traditional costumes, and distinctive rituals, creating a lively cultural panorama in the ancient capital. Every year on the 3rd day of the 3rd lunar month, people in the locality hold the festival at the Shrine of Princess Nhồi Hoa. This is not only a time to remember the princess’s contributions but also an opportunity for the community to preserve and promote traditional cultural values and to strengthen the friendship between the people of Vietnam and Laos on the land with a rich history.