There have been concerns that lunar new year may cause the current wave of COVID infections in China to spread much further and faster. But the worst has likely passed.
China have been overestimated or deaths have been underestimated. Whatever the case, China’s massive COVID surge and expected Lunar New Year travel could raise risks for other countries.
The Seven Lucky Gods usher in good fortune in the new year in Japan. Among them, Hotei plays the most prominent role, for he is considered not just a lucky god, but also a buddha.
The Lunar New Year celebrations that start on Feb. 1 will go on for a week. It is the year of the tiger, considered in Chinese culture as the foremost among all beasts.
As we ring in Lunar New Year, we need to celebrate Asian communities, their fierceness and courage; and demand bold changes for combatting anti-Asian racism and supporting well-being.