In ancient times, the Dong people did not have a tradition of bullfighting. Until a time that is difficult to trace, there appeared an old man who was filled with deep emotions towards cows, known as the ‘Bull Lover’. He has been with cows since childhood, making a living by herding them. Despite his age, he has never found a cow that satisfies him. Carrying the pursuit of the perfect cow, he embarked on a long journey to find it, with footprints covering various villages. As time passed, by the time he returned home with the cow, his temples were already gray.
The old man who loves cows is famous for recognizing them. He knows every detail of cows like the back of his hand, from their eyes to their breath, from their fur to their hooves. One day, he arrived at the place of the ditch and encountered an extraordinary cow. He joyfully asked its owner if he was willing to sell it. The old cow owner knew very well that this cow was extraordinary and had heard of the name of the old cow lover. He deliberately raised the price, but the old cow lover did not hesitate to buy it.
This cow is truly extraordinary. Not only does it have a strong and robust physique, with a raised forehead and straight waist, but what’s even more amazing is that its hooves seem to have the words “I am king in the world” naturally carved on them. There is also a seven foot five inch long red dragon beard hidden in its right ear, indicating its infinite strength and unparalleled fighting ability. The old man who loves cows regards them as the guardian of his family and brings them home with joy.
While passing by Rhinoceros Pond, Baojia Niu accidentally encountered a rhinoceros, and they immediately engaged in a thrilling gladiatorial fight. On the shore and in the water, two giant beasts fought fiercely for three days and three nights, unable to distinguish between high and low, attracting surrounding villagers to gather and watch, creating a lively atmosphere. The old man who loves cattle is extremely anxious and worried about the safety of the domestic cattle. Finally, he came up with a clever plan and ordered someone to dive into the water, tie the legs of the two beasts with ropes, and successfully subdue the rhinoceros, while the domestic cattle are safe and sound.
This incident occurred on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. Since then, the Dong village has had a bountiful harvest year after year, with a thriving population and livestock, all thanks to the protection of their cattle. To commemorate this victory and miracle, the Bull Lover has decided to hold a bullfighting event every year on this day by the Rhinoceros Pool to celebrate the harvest and pray for continued good weather in the coming year. So, the bullfighting festival spread among the Dong people and became a traditional festival full of joy and blessings.
