The carcass of a whale weighing over six tons was discovered drifting ashore in Lien Huong Commune, Lam Dong Province. Local fishermen and authorities organized a ceremonial burial in line with coastal traditions.
The whale was found drifting near the shore by local residents. Photo: Nguyen Minh
On the morning of August 3, residents of Lien Huong Commune (Tuy Phong District, formerly part of Binh Thuan Province) held a solemn burial for the whale - locally revered as “Ca Ong,” or Lord Whale - according to long-standing customs.
The previous afternoon, locals spotted the dead whale, approximately 11 meters in length and weighing more than 6 tons, floating near the shoreline. Due to its massive size, fishermen and local authorities coordinated efforts using multiple fishing vessels and an excavator to tow the whale ashore.
The burial ceremony was conducted with full ritual honors, including incense offerings, prayers, ceremonial readings, and finally, interment in the coastal sands.
According to coastal fishermen, whales are regarded as sacred sea guardians. When a whale dies and drifts ashore, the event is considered a positive omen. Communities often respond with ceremonial burials, seeing it as a blessing from the sea.
The worship of Ca Ong remains a deeply rooted cultural practice, reflecting both gratitude and reverence for these majestic creatures.
Quang Hung
Vietnamnet.vn
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