Healthy demand despite higher costs for Hungry Ghost Festival offerings

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Note the idea of modifying traditions to keep them relevant with the times....

On the 15th day of the month, which is Zhong Yuan Jie, customers will splurge more on items for their deceased relatives.

According to traditional customs, the souls of the dead are believed to roam the Earth during the seventh lunar month. Offerings are made to appease them when the gates of hell open during this period, which is from July 29 to Aug 26 this year.

"People are still buying the special items for their dearly departed," he said. "They will not stint on their late Ah Gongs and Ah Mas."

"Covid-19 care packs" comprising a mask, hand sanitiser and safety goggles priced at $4 each have attracted much interest since the pandemic started, as have "Moderna" or "Pfizer" "vaccination jabs" at the same price.

younger customers have also been burning offerings such as dog and cat food and kennels for their dead pets in recent years, or gifting paper pets to their animal-loving human relatives in the afterlife.

Acknowledging the need to stay in tune with new trends, Mr Ong said: "You really have to move with the shifting demands in the spirit world."

Qns:

1. Is superstition still relevant in today's world?

2. 'Traditions are no longer relevant.' To what extent is this true in your society?