GALA Live

វិចិត្រសិល្បៈចិន Fine Arts in China - Ep 4At the end of the 19th century, societal needs shifted, rendering certain abilities obsolete. I was born and raised in the village of Klahan, a place that has remained unchanged for generations. Time has stretched long since those early days. The people here, like those across the world, are defined by their existence within this shared reality. Klahan is both our home and our universe, a small yet self-contained world. Salapa Nei Pratichan—this name echoes through the village, though its meaning lingers in the air like an unspoken truth. My earliest memories trace back to the river, where I often wandered. Its currents mirrored the rhythm of our lives, steady and unyielding. Life in Klahan was simple. We worked, gathered, and upheld traditions passed down through whispers and weathered hands. One ritual involved examining our bodies, a practice meant to remind us of our mortal ties. When newcomers arrived, they too were drawn into this cycle, their presence folding into the village’s timeless fabric. This is the first time I reflect on these moments, piecing together fragments of a life shaped by repetition and resilience. The past, though distant, remains etched into the land and its people. Here, in Klahan, we are both bound and freed by the weight of our shared history. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe

For decades, the preservation of #Angkor - a #UNESCO World Heritage Site - has been a global mission. Among the many contributors, #China has played a vital and growing role. In this #documentary, Reviving Angkor’s Royal Palace, award winning documentary maker Miao Xiaojuan takes a journey deep into the jungles of northwest #Cambodia to uncover a long-forgotten treasure at the heart of Angkor Thom: the #RoyalPalace, once home to the #Khmer kings. Today, a Chinese-Cambodian team is carefully bringing this sacred place back to life, one stone at a time.From the 9th to 14th century the Khmer Empire ruled much of mainland Southeast Asia, carving a monumental capital out of the jungle. This ancient wonder Ankor spans over 400 square kilometers in today’s Siem Reap, northwest Cambodia.Not only does it belong to Cambodia, the world site is for everyone. While the temples of Tapron, Ankor Wat, and Bayon are known to many, the true soul of the kingdom lies in the heart of Angkor Thom. Here in the royal palace at its center stands Phimeanakas, a 10th century Hindu temple once the residence of the Khmer kings, still revered as the most sacred site in local memory.You are working in the heart of Cambodia, the heart of the Khmer people. When this temple is very well restored it will be the most important, especially for the Cambodian people.Over 400 years after Angkor’s fall, French explorer Henri Mouhot discovered these ruins. But it wasn’t until 1992 when UNESCO listed Angkor as a world heritage site in danger that true rescue efforts began. Experts from around the globe have come together to preserve this treasure of human civilization one stone at a time.When you see each temple you will see different techniques using the international team come to help but at the same time to learn as well and to share to the world. Since 1993 China has played a vital role in this global undertaking restoring temples like Chau Say Tevoda and Ta Keo, and now reviving the royal palace.The consistency is the key here, it’s not on again off again and it doesn’t come with a whole package of conditions that have to be met. Cambodia and China are working together thousand years ago. You can find the evidence on different temple carvings. The Chinese bring back the story of the connection between Cambodia and China and also connect to the world as well through this culture at Angkor.The restoration project is a highlight for civilizational exchange and the Belt and Road initiative is to empower economies for their own development. A good example of that is the new airport at Siem Reap to protect Angkor Wat. The other airport was too close and so the turbulence from the aircraft was disturbing the sites. Without Chinese assistance that couldn’t have happened. It also opens up new travel routes for tourists here in the country.Here in Angkor the voices of travellers from around the globe echo among the ancient stones. They tell stories of wonder, connection, and shared humanity. It’s not only preserving the rich culture that they have here but also it’s just showing that other countries are willing to help in this modern day. One of the things you learn traveling especially maybe for a lot of Americans who haven’t is you learn pretty quickly that everyone is really the same deep down. It’s just good to come here and just to have a break and to go a little bit far away from every bad news and see that the world can be full of serenity and can be peaceful.While Trump champions America first, China’s quiet partnership-driven diplomacy is emerging as a stabilizing force in an increasingly fragmented world.For a more inclusive approach that focuses on development interdependence, infrastructure support is just going to naturally win over the hearts and minds of many countries around the world. The whole world is kind of waking up and realizing that this is very impressive governance and leadership and that there’s a lot that can be learned.To safeguard legacies like Angkor is never the task of one nation alone but a shared responsibility for all who cherish the memory and wisdom of ancient civilizations. When we study these ancient cultures what we see is that they’re not thriving through conflict. They’re thriving through peace, through development, through trade, through cultural exchange.Time gives us to learn and to share. At the same time, to receive new technology. The most important key place to do the work. The Khmer people pay a lot of respect. You have a lot of deep sayings the Khmer people say in the heart not the word.Two days of filming cannot possibly capture the essence of the royal palace’s restoration. Yet we look forward to returning in another five years to witness what time, trust, and collaboration can achieve. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe

ស៊េរីភាពយន្តឯកសារ "វិចិត្រសិល្បៈក្នុងប្រទេសចិន" ផលិតដោយ China Media Group (CMG) គឺជាស៊េរីដែលមាន 12 ភាគដែលបង្ហាញពីស្នាដៃសិល្បៈបុរាណ និងសម័យទំនើប ដែលបង្ហាញពីសោភ័ណភាពនៃវប្បធម៌ និងប្រវត្តិសាស្ត្រចិន។ ស៊េរីភាពយន្តឯកសារបម្រើជា "សារមន្ទីសិល្បៈវីដេអូ និងឌីជីថល" ដែលតាមរយៈនោះស្នាដៃសិល្បៈដ៏ល្អឥតខ្ចោះអាចត្រូវបាននាំមកជិតទស្សនិកជនកាន់តែទូលំទូលាយ។The documentary series "Fine Arts in China," produced by China Media Group (CMG), is a 12-episode series features classics and modern artwork which demonstrates the aesthetics of Chinese culture and history. The documentary series serves as a "video and digital art museum," through which excellent works of art can be brought closer to a wider audience. Artistic, Cultural, Social, Natural, and Historical Significance NB: The transcript presents a poetic narrative that intertwines themes of existence, community, and cyclical human experiences. Through refined and symbolic language, it emphasises the interconnectedness of life, cultural identity, and historical continuity. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe

ភាពយន្តឯកសារនេះរំលេចនូវរឿងរ៉ាវរស់រវើកនៃទំនាក់ទំនងយ៉ាងស៊ីជម្រៅរបស់ប្រធានាធិបតីចិន Xi Jinping ក្នុងការការពារ ថែរក្សា និងផ្សព្វផ្សាយវប្បធម៌ប្រពៃណីចិនពេញមួយអាជីពនយោបាយរបស់គាត់។វាផ្តល់នូវការបង្ហាញយ៉ាងទូលំទូលាយនៃទស្សនវិជ្ជាអភិបាលកិច្ចរបស់អ្នកដឹកនាំទាក់ទងនឹងការការពារបេតិកភណ្ឌវប្បធម៌របស់ប្រទេសមួយ។This documentary highlights vivid stories of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s deep connection to safeguarding, preserving, and promoting traditional Chinese culture throughout his political career. It offers a comprehensive portrayal of the leader’s governance philosophy regarding the protection of a nation’s cultural heritage.跟随习近平主席的从政经历，精选一路走来他心系中华优秀传统文化保护传承和弘扬发展的情缘故事，通过当事人、亲历者的讲述，结合历史资料、考察活动、重大外交场合等纪实，集中展现了中国领导人在文物保护、文明探源、少数民族文化传承保护等领域的治国理政思想。Xi Jinping on protecting cultural heritageXinhuaBEIJING -- President Xi Jinping has emphasised the protection of cultural heritage and on many occasions underlined the significance of cultural protection.Important remarks by President Xi:-- The protection of historical blocks, ancient architecture and cultural relics is equivalent to the preservation of a city's history and heritage.-- History and culture are the soul of a city and people should cherish the city's historical and cultural heritage as their own lives.-- Historical and cultural heritage is a precious resource that is irreplaceable.-- We must attach importance to keeping our history and culture alive and strong to preserve the roots of the thriving Chinese ethos.-- Without the 5,000-year-long Chinese civilization, how could we have Chinese characteristics? This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe

Fine Arts in China ផលិតដោយ China Media Group (CMG) គឺជាស៊េរី 12 ភាគដែលបង្ហាញពីស្នាដៃសិល្បៈបុរាណ និងសម័យទំនើប ដែលបង្ហាញពីសោភ័ណភាពនៃវប្បធម៌ និងប្រវត្តិសាស្ត្រចិន។Video Description (250 words):Dive into a surreal and contemplative exploration of existence, identity, and societal structures in this avant-garde visual narrative. The film opens with stark observations of urban density, weaving through crowded cityscapes and echoing the refrain, *“There was a lot of people in the city,”* juxtaposed with haunting reflections on the world’s significance. Hypnotic repetitions—*“I was born,” “the world is the most important part of the world”*—anchor the film’s existential core, blending stark monologues with fragmented, dreamlike sequences. Journey to Paris, where cryptic references to a pivotal “first time” unfold alongside scenes of labor and cyclical bureaucracy. The camera lingers on crowds trapped in repetitive motions, symbolizing systemic inertia, while haunting chants of *“government to the government”* critique institutional loops. Rural interludes contrast the urban chaos, depicting communities rooted in tradition yet echoing the same tautological mantra: *“They are living in the country.”* Cultural threads emerge through the dialogue, evoking struggle and resilience, and oblique nods to Chinese sociopolitical themes. Stark imagery—blood-streaked scenes, fragmented family portraits, and a lone figure reciting *“the name of the Lord”*—adds visceral urgency. The film crescendos with a disorienting montage: birth, rebirth, and the relentless passage of time, underscored by the mantra *“It has been a long time for a long time.”* Stylised with jarring cuts, overlapping voices, and minimalist visuals, this vibrant piece challenges viewers to confront the absurdity and beauty of human cycles. Ideal for fans of poetic cinema and philosophical inquiry, the film invites reflection on identity, power, and the relentless rhythm of existence. *A haunting meditation on what it means to be born, belong, and repeat.* **[Watch now for a thought-provoking journey through the echoes of humanity.]** This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe

Xinjiang is a beautiful and distant place, an ancient and mysterious region in people's minds. For thousands of years, cultures from all over the world have converged here along the Silk Road. Far from the sea, inland, stretching high mountains surrounded by a magical landscape and rich species communities, 47 ethnic groups, 23 million people in this civilisation has never been interrupted, cohesion and mutual protection, thrive and prosper, with the courage and wisdom to build the ideal of a better home. Many people think of Xinjiang as a mysterious and backward place. In reality, it is where the modern clashes with the traditional, and excitement coexists with tranquility. In this episode, we bring you a real picture of life in Xinjiang, through the people who live there. A 23-year-old agent at a real estate company attempts to cycle down the Flaming Mountain, which few people dare even to climb. A host on Xinjiang People's Radio decides to do more than play recorded music, and organizes a band’s first ever live performance. A 25-year-old craftsman finds inspiration from Atlas silk and combines the old with the new to create his own unique style, and the first Chinese climber to conquer Bogda Peak in 1998 takes a journey into the unknown. For an objective and realistic view of life in Xinjiang, join us for "This is Xinjiang" from China Media Group Documentary. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe

Xinjiang នេះគឺជា Ep 1Far from the sea, inland, stretching high mountains surrounded by a magical landscape and rich species communities, 47 ethnic groups, 23 million people in this civilisation has never been interrupted, cohesion and mutual protection, thrive and prosper, with the courage and wisdom to build the ideal of a better home. The Pamir Plateau, where many of Asia's major mountain ranges converge, is known as the roof of the Asian continent and is home to generations of Kyrgyz herders. Tune in to this episode.Xinjiang is a beautiful and distant place, an ancient and mysterious region in people's minds. For thousands of years, colourful cultures from all over the world have converged here along the Silk Road, growing, alternating and merging, and then spreading further afield. The vast and rich geography, mottled and colourful cultural traditions, diverse lifestyles, and pluralistic ethnicities and religions have been deposited in this ancient land, but they have also been integrated into the trend of modernisation in today's changing society. What does Xinjiang look like now? And how do the people there live? Through carefully screened stories of real people, the film will break through traditional perspectives and look for the intersection of nature and humanity, history and reality in Xinjiang from a vivid and delicate point of view, telling viewers about an objective and real Xinjiang. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe

ស៊េរីភាពយន្តឯកសារ "វិចិត្រសិល្បៈក្នុងប្រទេសចិន" ផលិតដោយ China Media Group (CMG) គឺជាស៊េរីដែលមាន 12 ភាគដែលបង្ហាញពីស្នាដៃសិល្បៈបុរាណ និងសម័យទំនើប ដែលបង្ហាញពីសោភ័ណភាពនៃវប្បធម៌ និងប្រវត្តិសាស្ត្រចិន។ ស៊េរីភាពយន្តឯកសារបម្រើជា "សារមន្ទីសិល្បៈវីដេអូ និងឌីជីថល" ដែលតាមរយៈនោះស្នាដៃសិល្បៈដ៏ល្អឥតខ្ចោះអាចត្រូវបាននាំមកជិតទស្សនិកជនកាន់តែទូលំទូលាយ។The documentary series "Fine Arts in China," produced by China Media Group (CMG), is a 12-episode series features classics and modern artwork which demonstrates the aesthetics of Chinese culture and history. The documentary series serves as a "video and digital art museum," through which excellent works of art can be brought closer to a wider audience. Artistic, Cultural, Social, Natural, and Historical Significance NB: The transcript presents a poetic narrative that intertwines themes of existence, community, and cyclical human experiences. Through refined and symbolic language, it emphasises the interconnectedness of life, cultural identity, and historical continuity. Below is an analysis of its key elements: **Artistic Significance** The text employs repetition as a stylistic device to underscore existential and communal themes. Phrases like “born to be born,” “the village of the village,” and “living in the world” recur, evoking a meditative rhythm. This repetition mirrors cycles of life, tradition, and the passage of time. The fragmented structure, interspersed with non-English passages (e.g., Khmer or Lao phrases), adds a lyrical, almost incantatory quality, suggesting oral storytelling traditions or spiritual reflections. The recurring line, “I was able to take care of my family,” highlights personal resilience, while the repeated gratitude toward “the people of Karmam Thachy” reflects collective appreciation, blending individual and communal narratives. **Cultural and Social Significance** Cultural identity is central, particularly through references to villages and community bonds. The repeated gratitude to Karmam Thachy’s people signifies cultural solidarity, possibly indicating a shared history or collaborative efforts. Socially, the text emphasises familial and communal responsibilities, with lines like “take care of my family” and “the people who are living in the world” underscoring interdependence. Non-English phrases, such as “Knyompa nak muletan kere” and Vietnamese verses, further root the narrative in specific cultural contexts, celebrating linguistic diversity and heritage. **Natural Significance** Nature is subtly woven into the narrative through references to water and rural landscapes. The lines, “there was a lot of water in the area… and a lot of water,” evoke the vital role of natural resources in sustaining communities, particularly agrarian societies. The repeated invocation of villages—often described in a recursive, almost mythical manner (“the village of the village”)—suggests a deep connection to land and place, framing nature as both a physical and spiritual anchor. **Historical Significance** Historical continuity emerges through existential reflections and institutional mentions. The phrase “born to be born” alludes to generational cycles, while the abrupt shift to “When he died, he died” introduces mortality as a historical constant. References to UNESCO and “the government of the Pornchanamun” hint at preservation efforts or political histories. The text’s diverse timeline—jumping between birth, death, gratitude, and institutional bodies—creates a mosaic of personal and collective memory, suggesting how history is lived and retold through individual and communal lenses. **Synthesis** The shows artistic structure—recursive, multilingual, and cyclical—serves as a metaphor for the enduring nature of cultural and historical identity. Social bonds, familial duties, and gratitude toward communities like Karmam Thachy illustrate the resilience of collective memory. Natural elements and village life underscore humanity’s ties to the environment, while diverse historical references bridge personal narratives with broader institutional legacies. Ultimately, the show portrays existence as an interwoven tapestry of birth, death, gratitude, and cultural preservation, reflecting universal themes through a deeply localised lens. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe

CMG's Spring Festival Gala: A cultural phenomenon reaching new heightsChina 14:11, 29-Jan-2025 CGTNChina Media Group's (CMG) 2025 Spring Festival Gala on Tuesday delivered a cultural feast filled with laughter and joy, extending heartfelt wishes for the Year of the Snake to audiences worldwide.The gala set new records in real-time viewership and interaction on domestic media platforms. Preliminary statistics show 2.8 billion views, a 690 million increase from the previous year.The vertical screen-viewing feature alone garnered 496 million views, up 18.09 percent from last year, with 286 million users, a 14.4-percent increase.Social media engagement reached 16.6 billion reads and 670 million interactions, up 13.75 percent from the previous year.As many as 52 million people benefited from the accessibility features in the broadcast.China, January 28, 2025. /CMG The gala also achieved record-breaking metrics overseas. CGTN's multi-language channels and platforms, along with over 2,900 media outlets, broadcasted the event live, amassing over 1.59 billion reads and 520 million video views.The live broadcast on CMG's overseas social media platforms hit a new high of 73.37 million views, a 21.39-percent increase from last year. Japan's Niconico video-sharing site, broadcasting the gala for the 10th consecutive year, attracted over 101,000 simultaneous viewers.The celebration was showcased on 3,508 public screens across 136 cities in 87 countries, with screen numbers up by 223 and coverage expanding by 77.55 percent and 51 percent in countries and cities, respectively.Marking the first gala since the UNESCO listing of the Spring Festival, the event drew inspiration from intangible cultural heritage, blending traditional wisdom with modern technology to rejuvenate Chinese culture.Highlights included the opening visual show "Welcoming Fortune," which featured traditional crafts like iron flower displays and paper cutting, and the architectural showcase "Pillars and Beams," which presented the newly UNESCO-listed Beijing Central Axis with stunning visual effects. The soiree also featured a variety of performances, ranging from the skit "The Boatman's Umbrella," adapted from classic tale "The Legend of the White Snake," to the innovative robot dance "Yange BOT" and the martial arts display "The Pen Writes the Dragon and Snake," which visualized the poetic imagery of Li Bai's calligraphy.The gala's charm was amplified globally through events and broadcasts in major cities and landmarks, from New York's Times Square to Dubai's Burj Khalifa, spreading the festive spirit of the Chinese New Year far and wide. Across China, over 1,500 landmark screens in more than 100 cities, including Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen, broadcasted the gala, lighting up the night with vibrant visuals and sounds and offering warm New Year greetings to all.Across China, over 1,500 landmark screens in more than 100 cities, including Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen, broadcasted the gala. /CMGNB: Video of ‘The closing performance’ "Unforgettable Tonight" at China Media Group's 2025 Spring Festival Gala in Beijing, China, January 28, 2025. /CMG This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe

CMG's Spring Festival Gala: A cultural phenomenon reaching new heightsChina 14:11, 29-Jan-2025 CGTNChina Media Group's (CMG) 2025 Spring Festival Gala on Tuesday delivered a cultural feast filled with laughter and joy, extending heartfelt wishes for the Year of the Snake to audiences worldwide.The gala set new records in real-time viewership and interaction on domestic media platforms. Preliminary statistics show 2.8 billion views, a 690 million increase from the previous year.The vertical screen-viewing feature alone garnered 496 million views, up 18.09 percent from last year, with 286 million users, a 14.4-percent increase.Social media engagement reached 16.6 billion reads and 670 million interactions, up 13.75 percent from the previous year.As many as 52 million people benefited from the accessibility features in the broadcast.China, January 28, 2025. /CMG The gala also achieved record-breaking metrics overseas. CGTN's multi-language channels and platforms, along with over 2,900 media outlets, broadcasted the event live, amassing over 1.59 billion reads and 520 million video views.The live broadcast on CMG's overseas social media platforms hit a new high of 73.37 million views, a 21.39-percent increase from last year. Japan's Niconico video-sharing site, broadcasting the gala for the 10th consecutive year, attracted over 101,000 simultaneous viewers.The celebration was showcased on 3,508 public screens across 136 cities in 87 countries, with screen numbers up by 223 and coverage expanding by 77.55 percent and 51 percent in countries and cities, respectively.Marking the first gala since the UNESCO listing of the Spring Festival, the event drew inspiration from intangible cultural heritage, blending traditional wisdom with modern technology to rejuvenate Chinese culture.Highlights included the opening visual show "Welcoming Fortune," which featured traditional crafts like iron flower displays and paper cutting, and the architectural showcase "Pillars and Beams," which presented the newly UNESCO-listed Beijing Central Axis with stunning visual effects. The soiree also featured a variety of performances, ranging from the skit "The Boatman's Umbrella," adapted from classic tale "The Legend of the White Snake," to the innovative robot dance "Yange BOT" and the martial arts display "The Pen Writes the Dragon and Snake," which visualized the poetic imagery of Li Bai's calligraphy.The gala's charm was amplified globally through events and broadcasts in major cities and landmarks, from New York's Times Square to Dubai's Burj Khalifa, spreading the festive spirit of the Chinese New Year far and wide. Across China, over 1,500 landmark screens in more than 100 cities, including Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen, broadcasted the gala, lighting up the night with vibrant visuals and sounds and offering warm New Year greetings to all.Across China, over 1,500 landmark screens in more than 100 cities, including Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen, broadcasted the gala. /CMGNB: Video of ‘The closing performance’ "Unforgettable Tonight" at China Media Group's 2025 Spring Festival Gala in Beijing, China, January 28, 2025. /CMG This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe

CMG's Spring Festival Gala: A cultural phenomenon reaching new heights China 14:11, 29-Jan-2025 CGTN China Media Group's (CMG) 2025 Spring Festival Gala on Tuesday delivered a cultural feast filled with laughter and joy, extending heartfelt wishes for the Year of the Snake to audiences worldwide. The gala set new records in real-time viewership and interaction on domestic media platforms. Preliminary statistics show 2.8 billion views, a 690 million increase from the previous year. The vertical screen-viewing feature alone garnered 496 million views, up 18.09 percent from last year, with 286 million users, a 14.4-percent increase. Social media engagement reached 16.6 billion reads and 670 million interactions, up 13.75 percent from the previous year. As many as 52 million people benefited from the accessibility features in the broadcast. China, January 28, 2025. /CMG The gala also achieved record-breaking metrics overseas. CGTN's multi-language channels and platforms, along with over 2,900 media outlets, broadcasted the event live, amassing over 1.59 billion reads and 520 million video views. The live broadcast on CMG's overseas social media platforms hit a new high of 73.37 million views, a 21.39-percent increase from last year. Japan's Niconico video-sharing site, broadcasting the gala for the 10th consecutive year, attracted over 101,000 simultaneous viewers. The celebration was showcased on 3,508 public screens across 136 cities in 87 countries, with screen numbers up by 223 and coverage expanding by 77.55 percent and 51 percent in countries and cities, respectively. Marking the first gala since the UNESCO listing of the Spring Festival, the event drew inspiration from intangible cultural heritage, blending traditional wisdom with modern technology to rejuvenate Chinese culture. Highlights included the opening visual show "Welcoming Fortune," which featured traditional crafts like iron flower displays and paper cutting, and the architectural showcase "Pillars and Beams," which presented the newly UNESCO-listed Beijing Central Axis with stunning visual effects. The soiree also featured a variety of performances, ranging from the skit "The Boatman's Umbrella," adapted from classic tale "The Legend of the White Snake," to the innovative robot dance "Yange BOT" and the martial arts display "The Pen Writes the Dragon and Snake," which visualized the poetic imagery of Li Bai's calligraphy. The gala's charm was amplified globally through events and broadcasts in major cities and landmarks, from New York's Times Square to Dubai's Burj Khalifa, spreading the festive spirit of the Chinese New Year far and wide. Across China, over 1,500 landmark screens in more than 100 cities, including Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen, broadcasted the gala, lighting up the night with vibrant visuals and sounds and offering warm New Year greetings to all. Across China, over 1,500 landmark screens in more than 100 cities, including Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen, broadcasted the gala. /CMG NB: Video of ‘The closing performance’ "Unforgettable Tonight" at China Media Group's 2025 Spring Festival Gala in Beijing, China, January 28, 2025. /CMG This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe

07 Amazing China ថ្មក្រហមភ្លឺនៅក្រោមផ្ទាំងទឹកកក冰川下的鲜红岩石Amazing China: A Visually Stunning Storytelling DestinationDiscover Diverse Landscapes, Cityscapes, Culturescapes and Idyllic Escapes for Food Lovers, Nature Lovers, and LoversChina, a land of mesmerizing contrasts and unrivalled beauty, beckons travellers with its awe-inspiring landscapes, vibrant cityscapes, rich cultural heritage, and culinary delights. From the bustling metropolises to the serene countryside, from ancient traditions to modern innovations, China offers an unparalleled journey through time and space, captivating the heart and soul of every visitor.Diverse LandscapesChina's vast and varied topography presents a visual feast for nature enthusiasts. The majestic Great Wall, stretching over 13,000 miles, winds its way through rugged mountains and verdant valleys, offering panoramic views that leave one breathless. The ethereal beauty of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, with its towering sandstone pillars and mist-shrouded peaks, inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. The serene Li River, meandering through the karst landscapes of Guilin, invites travellers to embark on a tranquil cruise, surrounded by lush greenery and mirror-like waters.For those seeking adventure, the Tibetan Plateau, often referred to as the "Roof of the World," provides a thrilling experience with its snow-capped mountains, high-altitude lakes, and ancient monasteries. The picturesque terraces of Yuanyang, sculpted by generations of Hani people, showcase the harmonious relationship between humans and nature, creating a breathtaking mosaic of colors and patterns.Vibrant CityscapesChina's cities are a testament to the country's rapid modernization and dynamic urban culture. Beijing, the capital, seamlessly blends imperial grandeur with contemporary chic. The Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a monument to China's imperial history, while the futuristic architecture of the Central Business District exemplifies the city's forward-looking spirit.Shanghai, China's largest city, dazzles with its skyline of gleaming skyscrapers and historic Bund waterfront. The city's vibrant arts scene, world-class shopping, and eclectic dining options make it a cosmopolitan hub that rivals any global metropolis. In contrast, the ancient city of Xi'an, home to the legendary Terracotta Warriors, offers a glimpse into China's ancient past, with its well-preserved city walls and bustling Muslim Quarter.Rich CulturescapesChina's cultural tapestry is as diverse as its landscapes, woven from a rich history of dynasties, philosophies, and artistic expressions. The ancient art of calligraphy, the intricate craftsmanship of porcelain, and the mesmerizing performances of traditional Chinese opera all bear witness to the country's artistic legacy. Festivals such as the colourful Lantern Festival, the joyous Dragon Boat Festival, and the vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the country's cultural traditions.The Silk Road, an ancient trade route that connected China with the West, has left an indelible mark on the country's cultural heritage. Cities like Dunhuang and Xi'an were once bustling centers of commerce and cultural exchange, and today, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the past with their well-preserved relics and monuments.Idyllic Escapes for Food LoversChina's culinary landscape is a paradise for food lovers, offering a tantalizing array of Flavors, textures, and aromas. Each region boasts its own distinct cuisine, from the fiery spice of Sichuan dishes to the delicate flavours of Cantonese dim sum. Food markets, bustling with vendors selling everything from street snacks to exotic delicacies, provide an authentic taste of local life.In Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, food lovers can indulge in the region's famous hot pot, a communal dining experience that brings people together around a bubbling cauldron of spicy broth. In Guangzhou, the birthplace of dim sum, travellers can savour bite-sized delicacies such as shrimp dumplings, barbecued pork buns, and custard tarts, all expertly crafted and bursting with flavour.Conclusion"Amazing China" is not just a destination; it is a captivating story waiting to be told. Its diverse landscapes, vibrant cityscapes, rich culturescapes, and idyllic escapes for food lovers, nature lovers, and lovers create a tapestry of experiences that leave an indelible mark on the hearts of travellers. Embark on a journey to discover the visual splendour and cultural richness of China, and let its timeless beauty unfold before your eyes.https://www.patreon.com/c/TheChair844https://x.com/GalaLive8/https://www.linkedin.com/in/dgb365/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe

UNESCO recognises Spring Festival's promotion of harmonyThe Chinese people have expressed their immense joy and pride over the recent honor bestowed upon Spring Festival, the country's oldest and most important traditional festival.On Wednesday, UNESCO inscribed Spring Festival — the social practices of the Chinese people in celebration of their traditional new year — on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.The decision was made during the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Asuncion, Paraguay, in recognition of the festival's rich tapestry of social practices, rituals and cultural elements that engage the entire Chinese society.The news quickly topped the chart of popular topics on social media platform Sina Weibo, garnering over 400 million views as of 7 pm on Thursday.Reacting to the UNESCO honor, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said on Thursday that Spring Festival embodies the values of peace, harmony and unity cherished by the Chinese people and the Chinese civilization.It is not just a Chinese festival but a global one, he said, noting that nearly 20 countries have designated the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar as a public holiday, with about one-fifth of the world's population participating in various forms of celebration.Lin also extended a warm invitation to people worldwide to visit China and experience the vibrant festivities firsthand.Spring Festival, which marks the beginning of Chinese New Year, witnesses practices including wishing for good fortune, organising family reunions and promoting social harmony. Such celebrations are known as guonian, or crossing the year.Rao Quan, vice-minister of culture and tourism, who led the Chinese delegation at the UNESCO session, emphasised that Spring Festival has provided lasting spiritual strength to the Chinese people, promoting family and social harmony, economic development, environmental protection and global cultural exchanges.The UNESCO recognition for the festival will help promote universal values of peace and harmony and highlight the role of intangible cultural heritage in sustainable development, Rao added.Kang Zhen, an expert on traditional culture and vice-president of Beijing Normal University, highlighted the profound impact the UNESCO recognition is expected to have on the global Chinese community."The inscription will strengthen cultural identity and connections, enhancing the sense of belonging among the Chinese people worldwide," he said.Kang added that this acknowledgment would help establish Spring Festival as a "shared treasure of humanity", promoting its cultural traditions and values, and encouraging the preservation of other traditional festivals.UNESCO's documentation noted that the traditional knowledge and customs associated with Spring Festival are passed down both informally within families and communities and formally through the education system. The festival's craftsmanship and artistic skills are transferred through apprenticeships, fostering family values, social cohesion and peace, while reinforcing cultural identity, it said.Kang said he believes that these enduring characteristics will only grow stronger with time and technological advancements, enhancing people-to-people relations and mutual understanding.Chen Hongyu, an intangible cultural heritage scholar at Nanjing University of the Arts in Jiangsu province, said the UNESCO recognition underscores the importance of preserving cultural diversity and promoting intercultural dialogue. He highlighted diverse activities such as the custom of displaying New Year paintings.Wu Xin, a cultural expert, said the Taibo Temple Fair, a Spring Festival celebration in Wuxi, Jiangsu province, during which locals worship their ancestors on the ninth day of the Chinese New Year, will gain greater visibility and influence following the UNESCO inscription."The inclusion of Spring Festival on the UNESCO list is significant for tracing, revitalizing and promoting Chinese traditional culture," Wu said.Pan Lusheng, vice-president of the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles, called the UNESCO honor an effective response to cultural dissemination. Calling for continued efforts to protect and carry forward the rich culture of Spring Festival, he emphasized the urgent need for studying and preserving traditional festivals.Last year, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution designating Spring Festival as an official UN holiday, signaling its gradual recognition as a global celebration.With the recent addition, China now has 44 cultural elements or practices recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.Xinhua contributed to this story.yangfeiyue@chinadaily.com.cn This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe

05 ភ្នំឆាងប៉ៃ 美丽中国 AMAZING CHINAAmazing China is visually stunning storytelling. Discover diverse landscapes, cityscapes, culture scapes and idyllic escapes for food lovers, nature lovers and lovers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe

03 ភ្នំឆាងប៉ៃ 美丽中国 AMAZING CHINAAmazing China is visually stunning storytelling. Discover diverse landscapes, cityscapes, culture scapes and idyllic escapes for food lovers, nature lovers and all lovers longing for the moon over water.China, a land of vast contrasts and extraordinary beauty, boasts one of the world’s most diverse natural landscapes. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the lush, verdant rainforests of Yunnan, its terrain is a symphony of nature's wonders.In the north, the Gobi Desert sprawls out in an expanse of rugged dunes and whispering sands, while the south is home to the Karst mountains of Guilin, whose jagged limestone peaks rise dramatically above emerald rivers. The mighty Yangtze River, winding through the heart of the country, carries with it tales of ancient civilizations and fertile plains, sustaining life across thousands of miles.China's forests, from the sacred pines of Mount Huangshan to the bamboo groves sheltering the elusive giant panda, are sanctuaries of rich biodiversity. The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, known as the "Roof of the World," offers a stark, majestic wilderness where rare snow leopards and yaks roam under an infinite sky.The country's eastern coastlines are fringed with stunning wetlands, teeming with migratory birds, while the subtropical landscapes of Hainan Island offer palm-fringed beaches and crystal-clear waters.China's nature is not just a backdrop but an integral part of its culture and history. Every mountain, river, and forest has a story, a legend that echoes through time. To witness China's natural splendour is to step into a world where the earth itself is alive with beauty and ancient wisdom.Amazing China Episode 2 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit galalive.substack.com/subscribe