Katê Festival celebrated at Pô Klong Garai Tower in Khánh Hòa

The Katê Festival has commenced at the Pô Klong Garai Cham Tower, a special national relic located in Khánh Hòa province. The event serves as a major cultural milestone for the Cham people following the Balamon religion, acting as a time to honor ancestors and pray for favorable weather and prosperous harvests.

Key religious ceremonies led by the Cham Balamon Dignitaries Council include the procession of ritual garments, the opening of the tower, the ritual cleansing of the deity statue, and the dressing of the deity in new attire. These sacred rites take place within the ancient tower dedicated to King Pô Klong Garai, who is revered as a deity of irrigation.

In addition to the solemn religious rites, the festival features vibrant cultural performances, including traditional fan dances by Cham women and musical ensembles featuring the mã la instrument performed by Raglai artisans. The festivities are expected to continue through October 11 at various village and lineage temples.