Ushering in the year of the rat

Celebrations were in order for the coming of the Chinese New Year.

The consul-general of the People’s Republic of China in Johannesburg held a dazzling reception last week.

Tang Zhongdong was delighted to have distinguished guests in attendance, namely the secretary of the ANC Ace Magashule and Premier of the Free State Sisi Ntombela to name just a few.

“I’m sure you will agree with me that this year should have been celebrated in the Free State because the Premier, the executive and so many others are here,” said Ntombela.

Having such a great relationship with the province, she mentioned that 232 students from the Free State were studying at various universities in China.

“Last year in December, 34 students graduated from various universities in China and we would love to see more this year,” she said.

Zhongdong gave a warm welcome and spoke of China’s achievements.

“Last year was the year of extreme importance for China and marks the 70th anniversary for all the glorious achievements China has made,” he said.

“In the past 70 years, the Chinese nation has realised tremendous transformation.”

With a big year ahead, the consul-general extended his well wishes.

“On behalf of the Chinese Consulate general office, I extend my best wishes to you, family and friends from all walks of life. To a happy healthy and prosperous new year.”

With traditional Chinese performers of the University of Johannesburg Confucius Institute, it was a real treat to be immersed in the culture.

Professor Peng Yi of the institute explained what the Spring Festival/Chinese New Year was all about.

According to her, because the Spring Festival is by far the most important event in China, it should be celebrated accordingly.

“On the eve of the Spring Festival, families get together to have a grand dinner. Dumplings are the order of the night as it is the most traditional food,” she said.

Apart from the dinner, families clean their houses, put the traditional red couplets on their gates and light firecrackers to chase away the legendary monster Nian.

Lasting about 15 days, it’s a celebration with family and friends to usher in the new year.

“People visit relatives and say the words ‘Happy new year’. Many enjoy the festival this time of year as it is a good time to rest. There’s a lot of delicious food, music and laughter and money is given to children for good luck in the coming year,” she said.

The Lantern festival comes just after symbolising the end of the festivities for the spring.

The year 2020 is the Year of the Rat, an animal that symbolises wealth and the beginning of a new day. Happy Chinese New Year and may it be golden.

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