Nine Emperor Gods Festival: Devotees walk across burning embers for good luck

Barefoot worshippers crossed a bed of smouldering embers at Si Thian Kong Temple in Kuala Pilah, Malaysia, on Saturday night. It took place during the Nine Emperor Gods Festival. Fireworks and firecrackers filled the sky, and performers staged a lion dance.

Before the ceremony, the group levelled the fire pit and scattered salt over the coals. The temple chairman said crossing the fire is meant to bring good luck, health and business success for the year ahead. Others lit candles, made offerings and were blessed with red paint.

The nine-day Taoist festival is observed by Chinese communities across Southeast Asia. Followers keep a strict vegetarian diet for its full length.