#DidYouKnowHistory (May) - Nian, the beast

As a history major, I loved taking modules and courses that were related to society and culture. I enjoyed learning about what people do in the past and how traditions were being passed down and why some are considered important while the rest faded into space. Hence, I've decided to start #DidYouKnowHistory. We will talk about history and culture with reference to postcards that I have received. 

For the month of May, we will be talking about Nian! 

A postcard featuring a lion dance costume

What in the world is that funny-looking creature? 

If you are familiar with Chinese traditions or have been in a country that celebrates Chinese New Year, you would often see this thing around during the Chinese New Year festive period. You would also often hear music accompanying it as it walks around. In Singapore, this thing is a beast called Nian. Before I go into talking about the story of this creature, I just want to highlight that other countries might have a different story to tell about the origins of Nian.

Long long ago, it was said that at the beginning of Chinese New Year, the Nian would come out of hiding to feed on animals and men. As Chinese New Year usually comes after winter, food is often sparse during this period of time. With no food to eat, the beast would travel to the neighbouring villages to look for food. It would eat the crops and sometimes attack the villagers as well. When the villagers first saw the creature, it was said that it looked like a flat-faced lion with a body of a dog. After Nian left the village full and satisfied, the villagers came together to find a way to stop the attack. It was discovered that the creature is afraid of colour red and is sensitive to loud noises and fire. During the next Chinese New Year, the villagers started putting red lanterns and scrolls on their windows and doors to chase away the creature. They would also leave food at their doorstep to divert the creature away from the humans. Firecrackers would be lit and loud music would be played so as to chase away the creature away from the village. Cool huh? Hence, that is probably why people wear red during Chinese New Year and loud music (drums and cymbals) would accompany the lion when it goes around to perform. 

The actual lion dance takes a lot of skill and effort to perform. As the lion consist of two person, one person holding the head and the other one as the hind legs, a lot of coordination is involve so that when they perform, it looks like it is ONE lion performing. Pretty amazing! Here is a clip of a lion dance performance: 

Chinese New Year; one of my favourite festive seasons 

I love celebrating Chinese New Year! Sadly in Singapore, we are not allowed to play with firecrackers. Households and companies would often hire the lion dance troupe to perform during Chinese New Year to chase away the bad luck and bring in the good luck. I love the atmosphere that surrounds the festive season. Relatives would come visit, families gather together for dinner and money!! 

Hope you enjoyed #DidYouKnowHistory! :) 

Cheers! 

C