Honorable Mention / 2024 / Portraiture / Culture

• Photographer
  Liang Cheng Chen, Taiwan
• Studio
  Liang Studio
• Instagram
  liang750607

In Taiwanese tradition, July in lunar calendar is also called “Ghost Month.” On the 15th day of Ghost Month is “Ghost Festival.” “Zhongyuan Pudu” which is a salvation ceremony that is held in local temples all over Taiwan this day; offering feasts and burn joss paper to the wandering ghosts.

After Zhongyuan Pudu, a powerful Taoist will be invited to play the role of Zhong Kui. Zhong Kui is traditionally regarded as a vanquisher of ghosts and evil beings. The Taoist will perform Zhong Kui Dance, the purpose of this activity is to drive away wandering ghosts who refuse to return the Underworld.