On the occasion of the Chinese New Year, Confucius Institute at University of Mauritius held a ‘cultural experience’ event, named "Jade Rabbit Sends Blessings” as we welcome the New Year. The activity was held at the University of Mauritius on 18th of January and included not only traditional calligraphy and painting activities, but other activities with such as paper-cutting, quizzes and games based on the Spring Festival theme. The activities allowed the participants to experience fully the charm of the Chinese New Year celebrations.
Traditional calligraphy and painting are treasured aspects of Chinese culture, and Spring Festival couplets and handwritten blessings are an essential part of this moment of the year. Teachers of the Confucius Institute took up brushes and wrote beautiful New Year blessings on paper. They patiently guided participants one by one. Everyone's expectations and joy for the New Year were not only on paper, but also on their cheeks.
Chinese paper-cutting is a folk art activity in which scissors are used to cut patterns on decorative paper. It often carries people’s expectations for the New Year, and mostly represent the Chinese zodiac signs, blessings, and wishes. Many participants were eager to try, carefully drew, carved, and unfolded the paper, each revealing a piece of art.
Various other interactive activities were organised, such as Chinese general knowledge quiz, and Spring Festival pop-up books. Participants not only expanded their knowledge, but many won lottery gifts wonderfully prepared by the Confucius Institute.
The event lasted for more than three hours, with about 150 participants. All those present actively participated and interacted enthusiastically. The joyful atmosphere matched perfectly with the Chinese red decorations, leaving an unforgettable Spring Festival memory for everyone.
Entrance Welcome Board for the Chinese New Year of the Rabbit
Paper Cutting Activity
Chinese Painting Session
Chinese Calligraphy Experience!
Group Photo with some Participants