KYOTO, Feb 24 (News On Japan) –
A conventional strength-offering ritual generally known as “Mochiage Chikara Hono,” by which members carry huge rice truffles to hope for good well being, was held at Daigoji, a UNESCO World Heritage temple in Kyoto.
Participants, carrying critical expressions, hoisted huge red-and-white kagami mochi through the occasion, a part of the temple’s long-running “Godairiki-san” competition. The ritual is devoted to the Five Great Wisdom Kings, and is believed to grant blessings similar to freedom from sickness by providing one’s energy in devotion.
In the competition, girls compete to carry aloft a 90-kilogram kagami mochi for so long as attainable, whereas males try and carry a 150-kilogram model, testing each endurance and dedication.
Nishida Toru, 53, who received the boys’s division, mentioned he was thrilled with the end result. “I’m really happy. This was my second time taking part. Last year my hands slipped and I fell backward, but this time I just focused on lifting it even a little with sheer determination. I did my best,” Nishida mentioned.
The decided efforts of the rivals drew loud cheers from guests gathered on the temple, as onlookers inspired members taking up the formidable problem.
Source: YOMIURI