Villagers attend a Shehuo performance at Baiqiao Village in Zhongning County, northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Feb. 19, 2013. The performance of Shehuo can be traced back to ancient rituals held by ancestors of the Chinese people to worship the earth, which they believe could bring good harvests and fortunes in return. With time, the primitive rituals evolved into the Shehuo festivity, a tribute to the Tudi Gong, a deity who holds sway over fortune and wealth. Most Shehuo performances take place around traditional Chinese festivals, especially at temple fairs of the Spring Festival and the Lantern Festival. [Xinhua/Peng Zhaozhi] |