THE Chinese New Year commemorations which were held on January 11 unravelled several truths about the strength in the Chinese arts industry which Zimbabweans and several other African countries can emulate.
The University of Zimbabwe Great Hall was full to capacity with business leaders from Chinese companies and the banking sector in Zimbabwe and the Chinese diplomatic community led by ambassador Zhou Ding.
On the occasion of the celebration of the Chinese New Year, a history of the Chinese New Year was told. It dates back to about 3 500 approximately in the Shang Dynasty (1600–1046BC), when people held sacrificial ceremonies in honour of gods and ancestors at the beginning or the end of each year.
Chinese history has it that bright colours inspire critical thinking and heal the mind. One of the Chinese folk tales narrates that a monster named Nian (Year) would attack villagers at the beginning of each new year.
The monster was afraid of loud noises, bright lights and the colour red, so those things were used to chase the beast away. Likewise, creative and colourful costuming is a major characteristic of the Chinese Opera with the various colours won symbolising and communicating various messages.
The Chinese New Year celebrations last for 15 days and reinforce cultural values such as family harmony, social relations and securing good fortune for the coming year. There are 12 Chinese zodiac signs, in the following order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. Each sign is named after an animal and has its own unique characteristics.
The folklore behind the 12 animals goes like: There was an animal sprint race competition. As the whistle was blown each animal feared the horse as it was the strongest and fastest of them all. Half-a-dozen of the animals in competition jumped on the horseback and dropped off towards the finishing line. The snake then slithered and almost claimed the first position ahead of the strong horse.
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China’s ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding
2025 marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Zimbabwe. It is the year of the Snake on the Chinese Lunar Calendar. In the Chinese zodiac tradition, the snake brings wisdom, transformation, calmness and creativity. On this auspicious occasion, I extend my best wishes to all Zimbabwean friends. I wish you a happy and healthy Year of the Snake, opening an exciting new chapter of your life with your wisdom and endeavours.
Cultural refinement and innovation
Music, dance, theatre, good storytelling, fashion and costuming are an easily observable and adorable part of a performance and celebration culture. The Dream Star Art Troupe performed the Dancing Lions Celebrate the New Year performance including other 15 different main stage performances.
During the act, body intricate movements, jumps, aerial viewing and seizing opportunities with a deep sense of calmness were resurrecting observances to all the viewers who got first-hand information from Zhou that there will be more investment opportunities in the year 2025.
All the performers were well costumed and took the viewers to another world which is full of optimism and success. The Tsoro Arts Troupe, which was part of The Dream Star Art Troupe, were good to watch and were highly symbolic of the beauty of a well costumed ensemble. The other performances came from Xiong Nengzi, Liu Zheng and SunTing from Tongfu Hotel, Zhao Fang, Probeats and Tafara, Jin Xing, traditional marimba and Zhou Mei, among others. The Dream Show Art Troupe had included award-winning celebrities like Nyasha David, Fusion 5 Mangwiro, Mwenje Matole, among others.
Totems and taboos
It is also a common culture in Zimbabwe among traditional leaders to respect people’s totems. It is now tradition that wthanksgiving church services are usually wound up by an altar call through totem thanksgiving. The Chinese New Year celebrations in their own right communicate volumes on the need to preserve the animal kingdom while preventing cruelty to animals.
Technology and innovation
The Chinese government announced several achievements in their own country especially in the construction, farming, education and banking industries.
