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Dajia Mazu enters Minsheng Underpass 6.5 hours late, setting a record for the latest passage

From Liberty Times · (13h ago) Chinese Positive tone

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • The Dajia Mazu pilgrimage's procession entered the Minsheng Underpass in Changhua City at 1:45 AM, setting a new record for the latest passage.
  • Despite the late hour, nearly 2,000 devotees gathered to witness the event, creating a fervent atmosphere.
  • Authorities implemented extensive security measures, including a large police presence and a specialized response team, to manage the crowds and ensure safety in the narrow underpass.

Liberty Times (TW) captures the electrifying scene as the Dajia Mazu pilgrimage made its historic late-night passage through Changhua City's Minsheng Underpass. The event, which saw the procession arrive a record 6.5 hours behind schedule, was met with undiminished enthusiasm by nearly 2,000 devoted followers. Their fervent chants of 'Jin Oh! Jin Oh!' (Enter! Enter!) echoed through the night, demonstrating the deep spiritual connection and unwavering commitment of the faithful. This year's pilgrimage highlighted not only the enduring cultural significance of the Mazu pilgrimage in Taiwan but also the meticulous planning and robust security operations undertaken by the Changhua County Police. The deployment of 335 police officers, 88 civilian volunteers, and a specialized 'mobile response team' composed of martial arts experts underscored the authorities' dedication to ensuring the safety of participants in the notoriously crowded and narrow underpass, often referred to as a 'critical battle zone' during the procession. The image of Chairman Yan Qing-biao and Vice Chairman Cheng Ming-kun leading the sedan chair through the underpass, waving to the adoring crowds, encapsulates the blend of spiritual devotion and organized public event management that characterizes such significant cultural traditions in Taiwan. For Taiwanese citizens, the Mazu pilgrimage is more than a religious journey; it's a vibrant expression of shared heritage and community spirit, a testament to traditions that continue to thrive and adapt in modern times.

Enter! Enter!

— DevoteesChants from devotees awaiting the Mazu sedan chair at the Minsheng Underpass.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.