The 12-meter high lantern wheel features 1,080 candle-shaped lights arranged in seven layers. It is adorned with three distinct sculptures of Kalavinka, the siren-like Buddhist mythical creatures. [Photo provided to silkroadexpo.gogansu.com]

On June 15, a highly anticipated lantern lighting ceremony was held in Dunhuang, Gansu province, to mark the first anniversary of the "Ancient Sound of Dunhuang" tourism and culture complex.

Inspired by the frescos of the Mogao Grottoes, especially Cave 146, the lantern wheel stands nearly 12 meters high and features 1,080 candle-shaped lights arranged in seven layers. Each layer incorporates fog forest effects, and the structure is adorned with three distinct sculptures of Kalavinka, the siren-like Buddhist mythical creatures.

Lantern lighting ceremonies in the Mogao Grottoes are an ancient custom in Dunhuang. This lantern wheel combines the exquisite image of Kalavinka with blessings for safety, smoothness, happiness, and health in the following year.

Against the historical backdrop of the Silk Road, the Kalavinka in Dunhuang murals exemplifies the fusion of ancient Greek, Indian, Central Asian, and Chinese cultural elements, highlighting the inclusive and tolerant nature of Dunhuang culture.

The complex also features a "Shangyuan Festival Market," an interactive area showcasing and selling Silk Road intangible cultural heritage items and signature cuisines. This market is inspired by the immersive drama Ancient Sound of Dunhuang.

In the future, the tourism and culture complex will hold daily lantern lighting ceremonies to enhance tourists' nighttime experiences, support Dunhuang's night economy, and establish itself as a new landmark in the city.