The Festival of the Nine Emperor Gods is a 9-days long Taoist celebration that fall on the 9th month of the Lunar Calendar (currently Oct2007 is the celebration). It is celebrated mainly by devotees of the Jiu Wang Yeh sect. The 9 deities are believed to dwell in the stars and heaven.
In Malaysia, especially in Penang, you will find a hive of activities at many Chinese Temples.
The festival starts with the 9 deities being received by temples and devotees. During this festival, the deities are entertained with traditional opera. Roads leading to these temples are sometimes closed. Devotees observe a strict 9-days vegetarian diet. Stalls selling vegetarian food are lined with yellow coloured banner. The festival ends on the ninth day where the Gods (represented by mediums) escorted to the sea or river.
....more photos on Chinese celebrations at www.mymalaysiabooks.com
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