A Morning Ritual of Memory and Music
Exploring the intersection of history and daily life in modern Beijing
Every morning, as the sun rises over Beijing, a unique spectacle unfolds in the city's public parks. Dozens of people, primarily from the generation that experienced the Cultural Revolution, gather to sing songs that exalt the figure of Mao Zedong. According to a report by the French newspaper Le Monde published on September 9, 2026, this tradition remains a powerful symbol of cultural resilience and historical identity.
The Soundtrack of a Generation
The choirs, ranging from small groups to over a hundred participants, perform iconic hymns such as 'The East is Red' and 'Without the Communist Party, There Would Be No New China'. For these retirees, the music is more than just melody; it is a tool for socialization and a sense of belonging in a rapidly changing world.
Visuals of the Past
The atmosphere is evocative: many singers wear military-style clothing and pins featuring the leader's face, transforming the parks into living museums of the mid-20th century. These gatherings serve as a tangible connection to an era that defined the birth of the modern Chinese state.
Understanding the Context
| Concept | Explanation for International Readers |
|---|---|
| The Cultural Revolution | A sociopolitical movement from 1966 to 1976 aimed at preserving Chinese Communism by purging remnants of capitalist and traditional elements. |
| Mao Zedong | The founding father of the People's Republic of China, whose ideologies continue to influence the nation's political landscape. |
| State Perspective | According to Le Monde, the Chinese government not only tolerates these gatherings but sometimes facilitates them, viewing them as expressions of patriotism and social stability. |
While some critics argue that these songs idealize a complex and often violent period of history, for the participants, it is about preserving an authentic memory. This phenomenon is not exclusive to the capital; similar choirs exist in cities like Shanghai and Guangzhou, though the Beijing gatherings carry a special weight due to their proximity to the center of political power.
The sessions typically conclude with the spirited cry: "Long live the thought of Mao Zedong!" followed by applause and emotional embraces among the attendees.
Source: Le Monde