There have been many legends of the moon throughout the centuries depicting its magical intensities that are indeed difficult to deny. The Mooncake Festival also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival is one such fascinating lunar legend that is celebrated everywhere in the world where there is Chinese population. On the 15th day of the eighth lunar month when the moon is believed to be at its fullest and brightest, we celebrate the Mooncake festival by family get-togethers and outdoor ceremonies to appreciate and enjoy the beauty of moon at its full prime.
In old rural China, moon calendar was referred to while planting and harvesting. It is this time of year when villagers are over and done with their work on the fields. This festival is surrounded by multi-colored and rich legends revolving around love and family. It has been assigned great social importance and celebrates bounty, family and freedom. Mooncake Festival is an occasion that fetes to give thanks for the plentiful and abundant harvest that year. For us moon symbolizes prosperity and longevity and hence we offer prayers and wishes to the Lady of the Moon.
Mooncakes are devoured and exchanged as a token of love. They are also known as "reunion cakes" and make excellent gifts for kith and kin. According to the legend, moon cakes helped bring about the revolution of the Han Chinese against the ruling Mongolians. Mooncakes with written messages baked on them were used to persuade the people to rebel against the Mongols. These messages contained special instructions which guided every family to raise flags and lanterns on their rooftops on the night of Eight-fifteen. Villagers were also advised to beat on drums and gongs. The Mongol army was flabbergasted at this setup and mistook themselves to be outnumbered and retreated.
These palm-sized round cakes signify the importance and prominent status we give to our families. Family unity and perfection go hand in hand with the Chinese and what would be a better gift in gatherings and reunions than the golden yellow mooncake itself.
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