Photo via Astro AWANI
If you didn’t already know, today is Chap Goh Meh (February 26th) for the year 2021!
Otherwise known as the Lantern Festival (not to be confused with the Mooncake Festival, which is also referred to as the Lantern Festival), Chap Goh Meh is the 15th and final night (in Hokkien) of the Chinese New Year period.
While the eve of CNY is a big celebration with the reunion dinner, the last night is also a grand affair.
But do you know why this day is celebrated?
Like other celebrations, there are many stories and legends about the traditions of Chap Goh Meh, and why it is sometimes regarded as the Chinese Valentine’s Day.
No, seriously!
During the celebration, families gather to have a grand meal, which includes Yuanxiao or Tangyuan (Glutinous rice balls) and homes are beautifully lit with red lanterns.
Photo via Asian Inspirations
People also visit temples today and offer prayers of prosperity to bless their family for the coming year.
But Chap Goh Meh is also said to be a day courtship.
In ancient times, females of marriageable age were not allowed to step out of their homes except on this day, where the Jade Emperor had decreed everyone must carry a lantern and go out to deceive the God of Fire.
So men would gather around with hope of catching glimpses of these lovely maidens, and should a young man find someone to his liking, he then hires a matchmaker.
Photo via Hafiz Sohaimi, Wordpress
Women would also throw mandarin oranges into the sea, and it’s believed that by doing so, they would find themselves a good husband.
Nowadays, of course, there are so many ways to meet new people, but you know, Malaysians love to uphold tradition.
Photo via The Sun Daily
In mostly Chinese-centric areas in the country, it’s not uncommon to see young, single girls write their name and contact information on a mandarin orange and toss it into water, after which young single men will scoop it out of the water and try to make contact.
This practice isn’t limited to single girls, of course, as many people in general would just join the festivities.
But of course, this year, the celebration won't be as grand as it usually is due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you do have plans for today, don't forget about
the SOPs!
So you could say Malaysians are specially treated to two Valentine’s Days a year, for a “second chance” at love?
Cause why not, right?
by Kyle Roshen Jacob