{ Editor ’ s NOTE
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{ Editor ’ s NOTE
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Manuel Librodo Jr .
“ A nation ’ s culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people .”
— Mahatma Gandhi
ASIAN Geographic commemorates its silver anniversary in 2024 , and we ’ re in the mood to celebrate , remembering some of the most compelling features in our 25-year history . Over the years , we ’ ve discovered the astonishing diversity , complexity and sometimes downright strangeness of Asia ’ s traditions , beliefs , and arts . In this celebratory issue , we ’ re giving a second life to some of the most fascinating culture stories we ’ ve told – but with a fresh , up-to-date spin .
In some cases , more than a decade has passed since the original publication , but it ’ s interesting to note that when it comes to culture , change comes slowly , if at all . The popularity of adorning the body with henna hasn ’ t waned (“ A Habit of Henna ”, page 6 ). Japan ’ s annual phallus festival is alive and well (“ Culture Shock ”, page 20 ). And the spiritual power of the Hindu deities is still being rejuvenated through the ritual of Kumbhabhishekam (“ Once in 12 Years ”, page 90 ).
Of course , we must also accept change when it comes , whether for better or worse . In Tibet , with the encroachment of modernity , the sacred funerary practice of the sky burial is gradually disappearing (“ The Way to the Sky ”, page 38 ). In Russia , its little-known but not insignificant rice harvest is in question as the country ’ s devastating war with Ukraine threatens food production and prices (“ The Russian Rice Connection ”, page 66 ). And in Japan , a country heavily steeped in tradition , the allure of the country ’ s most famous performing artists is slowly but inexorably fading (“ Geisha ”, page 74 ).
We ’ d like to take this opportunity to thank all the talented writers and photographers that have contributed to the magazine through the years . Your powerful words and pictures have opened our eyes to the amazing customs and practices in this vibrant region called Asia .
Ian Bongso-Seldrup