Flickering flames, waving hands, and a vibrant spirit... On the evening of July 29th, multilingual influencers from the CMG(China Media Group) joined the celebration in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, immersing themselves in the enchanting atmosphere of the Yi Torch Festival and experiencing the unique culture of the Yi people.

Torch Festival Site [Photo by Liu Langtao]

At the scene of the Liangshan Yi Torch Festival celebration night, as the countdown ended, 88 small bonfires and 3 large bonfires were simultaneously lit, shining ever brighter and hotter against the darkness. Each bonfire was surrounded by people holding hands and dancing the traditional Yi Dati Circle Dance. Visitors from all over the country gathered to share in the joy of the Torch Festival. According to legend, the more bonfires one passes, the more blessings one receives from the Fire God. With heartfelt wishes, everyone paraded and danced around the bonfires, laughing and reveling in the festive spirit.

Bengali Influencer Yang Zhizhen Experiences the Torch Festival [Photo by Xiang Fangyao]

"Even though it was raining when the Torch Festival began, the fiery passion in everyone's hearts could not be extinguished." remarked Bengali influencer Yang Zhizhen at the festival. She also noted that Bangladesh, with its own diverse ethnic groups, can similarly appreciate the cultural atmosphere of such traditional festivals.

CGTN English Channel journalist Lv Qianqian shared photos from the Torch Festival, earning likes and praise from friends abroad

"The flames were intense, but the safety measures at the scene were excellent, and the people of Liangshan were incredibly hospitable," praised Lv Qianqian, a journalist from CGTN English Channel. She also shared her experiences of the Torch Festival on social media, receiving likes from international followers.

It is said that the Yi people have a deep reverence for fire, believing that the origin and end of life come from fire. This respect and worship of fire are ingrained in their blood. The Torch Festival continues the ancient Yi customs of using torches to drive away pests, pray for a good harvest, and honor ancestors. Having been passed down for thousands of years, it is known as the "Carnival of the East." With its grand scale, rich content, spectacular scenes, and large number of participants, it is one of the most distinctive traditional festivals with a deep ethnic flavor.

As the night grew darker, the Torch Festival gradually came to a close. Although the flames of the celebration were extinguished, the fiery passion for life in people's hearts will endure forever. (By Fan Yiling)