TIBET, CHINA During certain religious festivals of the Taoist-Buddhist tradition, somewhat bizarre practices occur. People pierce each other’s faces and backs with long steel needles or other objects. Walking on hot coals or other forms of near self-mutilation are also not uncommon. These festivals are linked to the belief that such practices protect people from illnesses.
Occasionally, however, people are willing to go even further during these festivals. Completely torn faces or needles applied to other parts of the body are not unusual. In the case of this video, a chainsaw is even used to make a small cut on a thigh.
There are many similar festivals throughout Southeast Asia. One, however, is the most famous and attracts tourists and participants from all over the world – the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, also known as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival. It takes place in Phuket, Thailand, at the turn of October and November, and it is definitely worth experiencing.
