Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Monday, May 28, 2007
Shaolin Kongfu more than a martial art
The famous Shaolin Kongfu is actually a comprehensive cultural and spiritual system rather than a mere boxing art.
Martial arts are only part of Shaolin Kongfu's abundant cultural heritage accumulated over 1,500 years, said Shi Yongxin, master of the Shaolin Temple, widely regarded as the cradle of Shaolin Boxing and Zen of the Chinese Buddhism.
The Temple was built in 495 in the period of the Northern and Southern Dynasties (420-581) and is now located in the Songshan Mountain area in Dengfeng city of central China's Henan Province.
The ancient Shaolin transcripts documented 708 sets of the so-called "Kongfu" including practices aiming to build the internal world and medication methods.
Shaolin Boxing, as part of the Shaolin Kongfu heritage, basically serves religious and cultural purposes and should not be separated from the Buddhist spirit, said Shi Yongxin.
The Shaolin master told Xinhua the Temple has been trying to protect the authentic Shaolin Spirit from being violated and misused for commercial purposes in recent years by popularizing the conception that Shaolin monks practice Kongfu as a method of strengthening their inner self as demanded by Buddhist doctrines.
The Temple even organized international seminars and created Shaolin Kongfu plays and cartoons to more clearly position "Shaolin Kongfu" within the Buddhist framework, according to the Master.
Wang Wenzhang, director of the China Arts Institute, said Shaolin Culture incorporating Zen, martial arts, medical sciences and arts is the essence of the Chinese culture and should be further popularized.
Protection of Shaolin heritage should be strengthened so as to prepare the cultural and spiritual framework to be listed as a "world heritage", said Wang.
Being listed as a "world heritage" will help to better protect Shaolin Kongfu, a traditional Chinese cultural system, said masterShi Yongxin.
Martial arts are only part of Shaolin Kongfu's abundant cultural heritage accumulated over 1,500 years, said Shi Yongxin, master of the Shaolin Temple, widely regarded as the cradle of Shaolin Boxing and Zen of the Chinese Buddhism.
The Temple was built in 495 in the period of the Northern and Southern Dynasties (420-581) and is now located in the Songshan Mountain area in Dengfeng city of central China's Henan Province.
The ancient Shaolin transcripts documented 708 sets of the so-called "Kongfu" including practices aiming to build the internal world and medication methods.
Shaolin Boxing, as part of the Shaolin Kongfu heritage, basically serves religious and cultural purposes and should not be separated from the Buddhist spirit, said Shi Yongxin.
The Shaolin master told Xinhua the Temple has been trying to protect the authentic Shaolin Spirit from being violated and misused for commercial purposes in recent years by popularizing the conception that Shaolin monks practice Kongfu as a method of strengthening their inner self as demanded by Buddhist doctrines.
The Temple even organized international seminars and created Shaolin Kongfu plays and cartoons to more clearly position "Shaolin Kongfu" within the Buddhist framework, according to the Master.
Wang Wenzhang, director of the China Arts Institute, said Shaolin Culture incorporating Zen, martial arts, medical sciences and arts is the essence of the Chinese culture and should be further popularized.
Protection of Shaolin heritage should be strengthened so as to prepare the cultural and spiritual framework to be listed as a "world heritage", said Wang.
Being listed as a "world heritage" will help to better protect Shaolin Kongfu, a traditional Chinese cultural system, said masterShi Yongxin.
Shaolin Temple, Hometown of Chinese Kongfu
People, native or foreign, are easily amazed by Chinese Kungfu performed by Jet Li, a film star now active in Hollywood, or that is shown in "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon".
Anyone interested in Kongfu has heard of Shaolin Temple (Shaolin Si), which is worshipped as the birth place of Kungfu.
Shaolin Temple, located on the south foot of Songshan Mountain (one of China's five most famous mountains), is 76 kilometres away from Zhengzhou, capital of Central China's Henan Province.
Origins of the myth
Founded in 496 during the period of the Northern Wei (386-534), the temple is full of history.
In 527, an Indian monk, Bodhidarma (known to the Chinese as Da Mo), founded the Mahayana sect of Buddhism, which is known as Chen (or Zen).
He stayed there till his death in 535, and the temple has become the centre of Chinese Buddhism.
It is said that Da Mo, seeing monks becoming fat and lazy from long hours sitting in meditation, came up with the idea of walking meditation, which imitated the natural motions of animals and birds. Eventually, the imitation evolved into a form of unarmed combat or martial arts, which is known as Kungfu.
Kongfu worship
Unlike other temples such as Lingyin Temple in Hangzhou or Ta'er Temple in Qinghai, Shaolin Temple enjoyed much fewer worshipers with burning incense.
I was told that this was because people had shifted their expectations from meditation to physical martial arts practicing.
The layout of the temple is quite similar to other Chinese Buddhist temples. However, there are some differences. One of these variations is the numerous stone steles that line the main roads of the temple on which there have been left important records.
On the high stele in front of the Bell Building, people can see the carved autograph of Li Shimin, a Tang Dynasty (618-907) emperor.
Li granted the temple the status of "No.1 temple on earth", and gave the monks a high rank, after 13 martial monks saved him from the enemy - this is the plot of the movie "Shaolin Temple".
Afterwards, the temple became famous and attracted a lot of lay people to study Kungfu. In other areas of China, other schools were established with names such as Emei Shaolin and Guangdong Shaolin.
At present special organizations for imparting Shaolin Kungfu have been set up in more than 10 countries including the US, Holland, France, Belgium, Italy, Singapore, and Switzerland.
People from more than 30 countries and regions have come to the Shaolin Temple to receive Kungfu training. And delegations of Shaolin monks have visited many countries for cultural exchanges in Kung Fu.
Quietly wandering in the temple, you are sure to learn more about Shaolin Kungfu while listening to the monks practicing in the yard.
But to watch their performances, you have to pay 20 yuan ($2.5). For the price of a very small donation, you can beat the big bell by the side of Bell Building nine times as the most sincere and effective prayer for blessings.
Pagoda forest
In another part of the temple, you can see the unique "Forest of Dagobas" (Pagoda Forest), with its 243 stupas or dagobas each containing the remains of an abbot from the Shaolin Monastery.
They were built of either stone or brick. The first stupa at this site was built in 791 and the last in 1803. They range from seven stories (14.6 metres) to just a metre in height with many different styles.
Against the deep and far mountains, this forest looks more like a holy place. But most of the trees are badly weather beaten and require maintenance.
Longmen Grottos
Somethings can be maintained, but not history. In past centuries, the temple has suffered repeated sackings as Shaolin monks liked to right wrongs. The most recent round of destructive visits was in 1928 by a local warlord, and then again in the early 1970s by bands of Red Guards during the "cultural revolution" (1966-76).
The temple is not alone. Longmen Grottoes, which enjoy the same fame as Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang of Gansu Province, make people choke as they see so many finely carved figures chopped headless.
Situated on the mountainside of the hills along the banks of the Yi River in the south of Luoyang, a city famous for its peonies, the grottoes have become a place for people to rethink their lives and contemplate what they should leave to future generations.
The carving of Buddha, which is said to have originated in India, began in 494 also during Emperor Xiaowen's reign, when the capital was moved from Datong in Shanxi Province where Yungang Grottoes are located to Luoyang.
The work continued over the next seven dynasties. Now there are more than 2,300 caves and niches, 10,000 Buddhas, 2,800 inscriptions, and 80 pagodas.
Listed as one of the world's unique cultural heritage sites, these caves were entirely hollowed out by man and have suffered a great deal of deterioration due to natural causes and through acts of vandalism, particularly by antiquarians collecting for museums and private collections before 1949. Many precious pieces were removed and are now on display at well-known museums around the world.
Along the steep hill, you can easily see visitors bemoaning the desecration of many splendid vivid figures.
The central figure is a huge Buddha which is believed to be Vairocana, the supreme, omnipresent divinity. It is almost 60 feet tall. The head alone is about 15 feet high and the ears are about 7 feet long.
The facial expression conveys a sense of peace and tranquillity, particularly in the eyes. It is said that it was modeled after the face of the Empress Wu Zetian of the Zhou Dynasty.
On either side of the Buddha stands the two disciples Kasyapa and Ananda and two Bodhisattvas with crowns. On the side walls are a Celestial Guardian and a defender of Buddha.
The guardian on the north wall holds a pagoda in his right hand and with his left foot is trampling an evil spirit. He wears an angry expression with a frowning brow.
Travel tips
There are frequent trains from Shanghai to Zhengzhou where you can take a bus or taxi to sightseeing spots. Recommended trains are K282, which runs between 7:48pm and 8:32am, (K376 which runs between 9:11pm to 9:35am or 1396 which runs from 8:48pm to 10:26am.
Ruse of Empty City
This is a traditional play. It is a very famous story from the Chinese novel The Romance of Three Kingdoms. The whole play consists of three parts: ``Lost of Jie-Ting Pass``. ``Use of Empty City``. and ``Execution of Ma Su``. The second part is the kernel and can also be performed alone. This is a popular play and has been performed by all famous opera masters. You will be amazed when you put those different styles together.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lost of Jie-Ting Pass: Shu State Prime Minister Zhuge Liang ( Kong-Ming) was leading the army to fight with the state of Wei. One day. he held a meeting with his generals in West City. because SI-MA Yi and the Wei State army were coming to challenge them. Zhuge needed to send an army to defend the town of Jie-Ting. Zhuge asked which of his generals would be prepared for this mission. MA Su. a staff officer. recommended himself and pledged with his head. Rather reluctantly. Zhuge agreed but he also sent WANG Ping to assist MA Su and told them to camp the army somewhere near the water source.
When the two officers and their army arrived at Jie-Ting. they found a hill near the town. MA Su intended to camp on top of the hill as this would give him an advantage over the enemy who would be at the foot of the hill. WANG Ping reminded MA that this was contrary to their orders and argued that the army should be stationed at the foot of the hill. MA Su insisted. so the two splited the army. MA Su camped at the top of hill and WANG Ping stationed at the foot. WANG also drawed a map of the situation and had it sent to Zhuge.
West City was an important traffic center. Zhuge had plotted his plan and sent all his armies out. He just left a few old solders with him since he had thought West City was safe. When he got the map. he immediately knew that Jie-Ting would be lost soon. Once the enemy took the Pass of Jie-Ting. it would be quite easy for the enemy to take West City and other towns. He immidiately sent out a messager to call General ZHAO Yun back whom he had sent to some place. Some time later the news of the lost of Jie-Ting came. SI-MA`s army quickly marched on approaching West City.
Ruse of Empty City: Zhuge was in a very embarrassing situation. SI-MA`s army was reported being nearer and nearer and his support was still far away. There was only one option for Zhuge to take. the use of empty city. Zhuge assembled his manpowers in West City. He told them to open the city gates wide and send them to clean the roads. The old men were puzzled but Zhuge told them not to worry and he had secretly distributed many many solders around to fight the upcoming battle. Zhuge himself went up the city wall with two of his service boys and began to play his favorite music there.
SI-MA`s army had been informed that West City was empty. But when they came to the city. they got confused and dared not to enter the city. SI-MA could not make his mind from what he had just seen: a leisure Zhuge. a widely open gate. empty roads with only a few old solders as the dustmen. Zhuge told them that the city was empty and he had prepared to welcome the enermy. SI-MA was determined that there was a trap for his army since Zhuge had never in his life taken any risking plans. He replied Zhuge that no matter whether the city was empty or not. he was not to enter. SI-MA`s army camped miles away outside West City.
General ZHAO Yun returned West City. The happy Zhuge sent Zhao to attack the enermy and he immediately retreated back to his State. SIMA was again informed by his spies that West City was empty. When he marched for the second time towards West City. he encountered ZHAO Yun and was defeaded. When he finally learnt what had happened. he realized about his weakness. and withdrew his army withdrawed from that area.
Execution of MA Su: MA Su and WANG Ping flee back to Shu State. WANG was brought in front of Zhuge. Zhuge critisized WANG for not obeying the command and punished him with a slashing. When MA Su was brought in front of Zhuge. Zhuge reminded him of his pledge and MA Su said he would take the consequences. Zhuge. with tears in his eyes. reminded him of his past misdeeds. and assured him that MA`s family would be well cared after his execution. As MA was being executed. Zhuge began to cry. One of his general asked him whether he regreted about the execution. Zhuge replied no. He just remembered that the Late Emperor once told him that MA Su should not be relied upon. as his words often exceed his ability.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lost of Jie-Ting Pass: Shu State Prime Minister Zhuge Liang ( Kong-Ming) was leading the army to fight with the state of Wei. One day. he held a meeting with his generals in West City. because SI-MA Yi and the Wei State army were coming to challenge them. Zhuge needed to send an army to defend the town of Jie-Ting. Zhuge asked which of his generals would be prepared for this mission. MA Su. a staff officer. recommended himself and pledged with his head. Rather reluctantly. Zhuge agreed but he also sent WANG Ping to assist MA Su and told them to camp the army somewhere near the water source.
When the two officers and their army arrived at Jie-Ting. they found a hill near the town. MA Su intended to camp on top of the hill as this would give him an advantage over the enemy who would be at the foot of the hill. WANG Ping reminded MA that this was contrary to their orders and argued that the army should be stationed at the foot of the hill. MA Su insisted. so the two splited the army. MA Su camped at the top of hill and WANG Ping stationed at the foot. WANG also drawed a map of the situation and had it sent to Zhuge.
West City was an important traffic center. Zhuge had plotted his plan and sent all his armies out. He just left a few old solders with him since he had thought West City was safe. When he got the map. he immediately knew that Jie-Ting would be lost soon. Once the enemy took the Pass of Jie-Ting. it would be quite easy for the enemy to take West City and other towns. He immidiately sent out a messager to call General ZHAO Yun back whom he had sent to some place. Some time later the news of the lost of Jie-Ting came. SI-MA`s army quickly marched on approaching West City.
Ruse of Empty City: Zhuge was in a very embarrassing situation. SI-MA`s army was reported being nearer and nearer and his support was still far away. There was only one option for Zhuge to take. the use of empty city. Zhuge assembled his manpowers in West City. He told them to open the city gates wide and send them to clean the roads. The old men were puzzled but Zhuge told them not to worry and he had secretly distributed many many solders around to fight the upcoming battle. Zhuge himself went up the city wall with two of his service boys and began to play his favorite music there.
SI-MA`s army had been informed that West City was empty. But when they came to the city. they got confused and dared not to enter the city. SI-MA could not make his mind from what he had just seen: a leisure Zhuge. a widely open gate. empty roads with only a few old solders as the dustmen. Zhuge told them that the city was empty and he had prepared to welcome the enermy. SI-MA was determined that there was a trap for his army since Zhuge had never in his life taken any risking plans. He replied Zhuge that no matter whether the city was empty or not. he was not to enter. SI-MA`s army camped miles away outside West City.
General ZHAO Yun returned West City. The happy Zhuge sent Zhao to attack the enermy and he immediately retreated back to his State. SIMA was again informed by his spies that West City was empty. When he marched for the second time towards West City. he encountered ZHAO Yun and was defeaded. When he finally learnt what had happened. he realized about his weakness. and withdrew his army withdrawed from that area.
Execution of MA Su: MA Su and WANG Ping flee back to Shu State. WANG was brought in front of Zhuge. Zhuge critisized WANG for not obeying the command and punished him with a slashing. When MA Su was brought in front of Zhuge. Zhuge reminded him of his pledge and MA Su said he would take the consequences. Zhuge. with tears in his eyes. reminded him of his past misdeeds. and assured him that MA`s family would be well cared after his execution. As MA was being executed. Zhuge began to cry. One of his general asked him whether he regreted about the execution. Zhuge replied no. He just remembered that the Late Emperor once told him that MA Su should not be relied upon. as his words often exceed his ability.
Weapon
Weapons: Today. the wide variety of weapons used in wushu practice fall into four groups:
1. Long weaponsThis is longer than the height of a person and is wielded with both hands during practice. This category includes the lance. staff. great broadsword. spear. halderd. fork. trident and spade.
2. Short weaponsIn this category the weapons are shorter than the height of a person and wielded with only one hand. These include the broadsword. rapier. hatchet. hammer. truncheon. jointed bludgeon. dagger and shield.
3. Soft weaponsRope. chains. or rings are used to create linked weapons which enable the user to strike close or far and are wielded with one or both hands. They include the nine-sectioned chain. three-sectioned flail. flying hammers (which is two iron balls linked by along iron chain). the rope dart. flying claw and ordinary flail.
4. Twin weaponsHere a pair of weapons are wielded. one in each hand. These include twin broadswords. twin rapiers. twin hooks. twin bludgeons. twin bent handled clubs. twin lances. twin hatchets. twin daggers. double-bladed daggers. panguanbi (twin rods with fist-shaped heads) and durk and drake battle-axes.
1. Long weaponsThis is longer than the height of a person and is wielded with both hands during practice. This category includes the lance. staff. great broadsword. spear. halderd. fork. trident and spade.
2. Short weaponsIn this category the weapons are shorter than the height of a person and wielded with only one hand. These include the broadsword. rapier. hatchet. hammer. truncheon. jointed bludgeon. dagger and shield.
3. Soft weaponsRope. chains. or rings are used to create linked weapons which enable the user to strike close or far and are wielded with one or both hands. They include the nine-sectioned chain. three-sectioned flail. flying hammers (which is two iron balls linked by along iron chain). the rope dart. flying claw and ordinary flail.
4. Twin weaponsHere a pair of weapons are wielded. one in each hand. These include twin broadswords. twin rapiers. twin hooks. twin bludgeons. twin bent handled clubs. twin lances. twin hatchets. twin daggers. double-bladed daggers. panguanbi (twin rods with fist-shaped heads) and durk and drake battle-axes.
Wu-style
Wu-style Taiji boxing was created by Quan You (1834-1902)who lived at Daxing in Hebei Province (now under Beijing Municipality).Quan You was of the Manchu nationality of China. He learned Taiji Quan from Yang Luchan and later followed Yang`s second son Yang Banhou to study the short program. Quan You was known for his ability to soften his movements. Quan`s son Jianquan changed his family name to Wu as he was brought up as a Han national. Wu Jianquan (1870-1942) inherited and disseminated a style of Taiji which is comfortable and upright. His style is continuous and ingenious and because his routine does not require jumps and leaps. it spread far and wide among common people. Since this style of Taiji Quan was disseminated by the Wu family. it became known as the Wu-style Taiji boxing.
Great Wall among Top 10 finalists for new 7 wonders
China's Great Wall is currently competing among the top 10 finalists for the title of the "New Seven World Wonders" as voted for by millions of people around the world.
It is reported that organizers of the biggest global vote ever announced that more than 45 million people had taken part in the ballot so far in an Internet campaign to choose the seven new wonders of the world from a shortlist of 21 historical constructions.
According to the most recently published data, on May 7, the top 10 were the Great Wall of China, the Acropolis in Greece, the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza in Mexico, the Coliseum in Rome, the Eiffel tower in Paris, the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, Petra in Jordan, the statues on Easter Island, Britain's Stonehenge and the Taj Mahal in India.
Following the destruction of Afghanistan's giant Buddha statues at Bamyan by the Taliban, a Swiss filmmaker, curator and traveler Bernard Weber decided to set up the "New Seven World Wonders" contest in 2001.
The Swiss organizer said the selection of the new list is a great chance for people to review how major world civilizations grow, and to appreciate the world's collective cultural heritage.
The New 7 Wonders' panel of experts, chaired by the former Director General of UNESCO, Prof. Dr. Federico Mayor, short-listed nominations with the most votes received at the end of 2005, narrowing the list down to 21 finalists in 2006.
The original "Seven World Wonders of the World", made by the Greek philosopher Philon 2200 years ago, included the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Lighthouse of Alexandria, the Statue of Zeus at Olympia and the Colossus of Rhodes, along with the Hanging Gardens of Babylon in modern-day Iraq, the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus in modern-day Turkey and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.
The final results will be officially announced on July 7 of this year in Portugal's capital city, Lisbon.
It is reported that organizers of the biggest global vote ever announced that more than 45 million people had taken part in the ballot so far in an Internet campaign to choose the seven new wonders of the world from a shortlist of 21 historical constructions.
According to the most recently published data, on May 7, the top 10 were the Great Wall of China, the Acropolis in Greece, the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza in Mexico, the Coliseum in Rome, the Eiffel tower in Paris, the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, Petra in Jordan, the statues on Easter Island, Britain's Stonehenge and the Taj Mahal in India.
Following the destruction of Afghanistan's giant Buddha statues at Bamyan by the Taliban, a Swiss filmmaker, curator and traveler Bernard Weber decided to set up the "New Seven World Wonders" contest in 2001.
The Swiss organizer said the selection of the new list is a great chance for people to review how major world civilizations grow, and to appreciate the world's collective cultural heritage.
The New 7 Wonders' panel of experts, chaired by the former Director General of UNESCO, Prof. Dr. Federico Mayor, short-listed nominations with the most votes received at the end of 2005, narrowing the list down to 21 finalists in 2006.
The original "Seven World Wonders of the World", made by the Greek philosopher Philon 2200 years ago, included the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Lighthouse of Alexandria, the Statue of Zeus at Olympia and the Colossus of Rhodes, along with the Hanging Gardens of Babylon in modern-day Iraq, the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus in modern-day Turkey and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.
The final results will be officially announced on July 7 of this year in Portugal's capital city, Lisbon.
China expresses "strong dissatisfaction" with U.S. military report
China on Monday expressed its "strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition" to a report by the U.S. Defense Department on China's build-up of its military strength.
"The report exaggerates China's military strength and expenditure with ulterior motives," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu said in a written statement.
"It disseminates the 'China threat' theory, severely violates norms of international relations and wantonly interferes with China's internal affairs," she said.
"As a peace-loving country," Jiang said, "China sticks to a path of peaceful development and adopts a defensive national defense policy.
She continued, "The international community has a fair judgment that China is an important force in promoting peace in the Asia-Pacific and the world.
"It is the responsibility of any sovereign nation to conduct necessary national defense build-up to safeguard national security and territorial integrity.
"This report propagating the 'China threat theory' is completely erroneous and futile.
"Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinese territory and China firmly opposes any country that interferes in its internal affairs through any means.
"The Chinese government adheres to the principles of peaceful reunification and 'one country, two systems.'
"We will show our utmost sincerity and do our best in seeking peaceful reunification of the motherland but we will never tolerate 'Taiwan independence' and allow any secessionist activities.
"We urge the United States to adhere to the one-China policy and the three joint communiqués, oppose 'Taiwan independence', stop selling weapons and sending any wrong signals to Taiwan secessionists," Jiang concluded.
"The report exaggerates China's military strength and expenditure with ulterior motives," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu said in a written statement.
"It disseminates the 'China threat' theory, severely violates norms of international relations and wantonly interferes with China's internal affairs," she said.
"As a peace-loving country," Jiang said, "China sticks to a path of peaceful development and adopts a defensive national defense policy.
She continued, "The international community has a fair judgment that China is an important force in promoting peace in the Asia-Pacific and the world.
"It is the responsibility of any sovereign nation to conduct necessary national defense build-up to safeguard national security and territorial integrity.
"This report propagating the 'China threat theory' is completely erroneous and futile.
"Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinese territory and China firmly opposes any country that interferes in its internal affairs through any means.
"The Chinese government adheres to the principles of peaceful reunification and 'one country, two systems.'
"We will show our utmost sincerity and do our best in seeking peaceful reunification of the motherland but we will never tolerate 'Taiwan independence' and allow any secessionist activities.
"We urge the United States to adhere to the one-China policy and the three joint communiqués, oppose 'Taiwan independence', stop selling weapons and sending any wrong signals to Taiwan secessionists," Jiang concluded.
Chinese police to get better equipment for Olympics
China will introduce advanced weapons, technology and equipment for police to ensure the security during the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, said an official of the Ministry of Public Security here on Monday.
Wu Heping, spokesman of the ministry, said at a press conference that China would increase investment in police equipment, which will help improve security service during the Games.
He said about 30 police helicopters will be in service by the end of 2007.
The ministry will hold the fourth China International Exhibition on Police Equipment in April 2008 to introduce advanced tools and equipment such as police vehicles, weapons, counter-narcotics equipment, anti-terrorism, anti-riot and anti-explosive disposal equipment, criminal surveillance equipment and communication equipment.
According to the ministry, police helicopter fleets, responsible for air patrolling, transporting, fighting terrorism, and directing the flow of traffic, have been set up or being organized in large cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, Zhengzhou, Shenzhen and Nanjing.
Wu Heping, spokesman of the ministry, said at a press conference that China would increase investment in police equipment, which will help improve security service during the Games.
He said about 30 police helicopters will be in service by the end of 2007.
The ministry will hold the fourth China International Exhibition on Police Equipment in April 2008 to introduce advanced tools and equipment such as police vehicles, weapons, counter-narcotics equipment, anti-terrorism, anti-riot and anti-explosive disposal equipment, criminal surveillance equipment and communication equipment.
According to the ministry, police helicopter fleets, responsible for air patrolling, transporting, fighting terrorism, and directing the flow of traffic, have been set up or being organized in large cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, Zhengzhou, Shenzhen and Nanjing.
EU launches privacy probe into Google's search engine
An independent panel of the European Union (EU) has launched a probe into whether U.S.-based Google Inc.'s Internet search engine violates EU privacy rules, local media reported Saturday.
In a letter to Google, the panel, made up of representatives from EU member nations, demanded clarification about the company's practice of storing and retaining personal information taken from users for up to two years, said a spokesman for the European Commission.
Peter Fleischer, Google's global privacy counsel, said the company attaches importance to the protection of personal data from users on its search engine.
The company retains the data for security purposes to protect its search engine from hackers and prevent fraud, he added, saying Google would answer the EU's concerns before the panel's next meeting in mid-June.
In the United States, three consumer groups also asked the Federal Trade Commission to investigate Google's actions on consumer privacy rights.
"Pirates 3" fails to set new opening box office mark
The latest film of Walt Disney's "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise failed to set new opening box office record in North America this weekend, largely due to the lingering popularity of superhero Spider-Man and a computer-generated green ogre named Shrek among moviegoers.
But "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End" still sold an estimated 126.5 million dollars worth of tickets in the United States and Canada during the three-day period, well on its way to setting a new domestic Memorial Day weekend box office record, distributer Walt Disney Pictures said Sunday.
The Disney film is the third blockbuster in three weeks in North American theaters to break major movie sales records, and industry observers note that the red hot summer season has only started. Several major pictures are slated for release in the next few weeks.
"At World's End" is also poised to have the biggest worldwide opening of all time, expected to gross an estimated 205.5 million dollars through Sunday, according to Disney. If including ticket sales for Monday, the company anticipates, the film would beat the industry record of 381.7 million dollars, currently held by "Spider-Man 3."
"We're thrilled to report that the film is on track to have the biggest worldwide opening in movie history," said Mark Zoradi, a Walt Disney Studios president. "From every corner of the world, the film is playing like gangbusters, and we think that this enthusiasm and good will is going to continue for a long time to come."
"Shrek the Third" came in second this weekend with an estimated51 million dollars for a cumulative two-week take of 215.7 million dollars, according to Los Angeles-based box office tracker Media by Numbers Sunday.
"Spider-Man 3" brought in 13.7 million dollars to take third over the weekend. The superhero action film has so far made a whopping 303.3 million dollars at the box office since its record-breaking debut three weeks ago.
The thriller "Bug," starring Ashley Judd as a lonely waitress who pairs up with a paranoid Gulf War veteran who sees bugs in a spooky motel room, came in fourth with 3.3 million dollars, while the comedy "Waitress" came in fifth with 3.1 million dollars.
The dozen top-grossing films earned a combined 193.3 million dollars over the weekend, up 2.6 percent from the same period last year.
But "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End" still sold an estimated 126.5 million dollars worth of tickets in the United States and Canada during the three-day period, well on its way to setting a new domestic Memorial Day weekend box office record, distributer Walt Disney Pictures said Sunday.
The Disney film is the third blockbuster in three weeks in North American theaters to break major movie sales records, and industry observers note that the red hot summer season has only started. Several major pictures are slated for release in the next few weeks.
"At World's End" is also poised to have the biggest worldwide opening of all time, expected to gross an estimated 205.5 million dollars through Sunday, according to Disney. If including ticket sales for Monday, the company anticipates, the film would beat the industry record of 381.7 million dollars, currently held by "Spider-Man 3."
"We're thrilled to report that the film is on track to have the biggest worldwide opening in movie history," said Mark Zoradi, a Walt Disney Studios president. "From every corner of the world, the film is playing like gangbusters, and we think that this enthusiasm and good will is going to continue for a long time to come."
"Shrek the Third" came in second this weekend with an estimated51 million dollars for a cumulative two-week take of 215.7 million dollars, according to Los Angeles-based box office tracker Media by Numbers Sunday.
"Spider-Man 3" brought in 13.7 million dollars to take third over the weekend. The superhero action film has so far made a whopping 303.3 million dollars at the box office since its record-breaking debut three weeks ago.
The thriller "Bug," starring Ashley Judd as a lonely waitress who pairs up with a paranoid Gulf War veteran who sees bugs in a spooky motel room, came in fourth with 3.3 million dollars, while the comedy "Waitress" came in fifth with 3.1 million dollars.
The dozen top-grossing films earned a combined 193.3 million dollars over the weekend, up 2.6 percent from the same period last year.
Wushu to be part of Beijing Olympic Games
NANJING: Wushu competitors at the 10th National Games yesterday had more than a medal to look forward to the martial arts genre will for the first time be included in the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
Jacques Rogge. president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) sprung the pleasant surprise on wushu aficionados who had been pushing for the sport to be made an official event.
Chinese President Hu Jintao (right) shakes hands with IOC President Jacques Rogge in Nanjing. East China`s Jiangsu Province October 12. 2005. [Xinhua]
``There will be a wushu competition during the Olympic Games. It`s not going to be one of the official 28 sports but we will organize with BOCOG (the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad) a wushu competition.`` said Rogge at the opening ceremony of the Sixth Art Exhibition of Sports in China in Nanjing yesterday morning.
When Beijing won the right to host the 2008 Games. proponents wanted wushu. one of the traditional sports in China to be listed as an Olympic sport for the home Games. The IOC turned down the proposal but kept the door open for it to be a representation sport.
But Rogge did not clarify if wushu will be regarded as a demonstration sport like taekwondo and tennis. which were earlier demonstration sports and have now become official events at Olympic Games.
While medals will be awarded for demonstration sports. they will not count towards the official tally of nations.
In 2002. the IOC decided to cap the number of Olympic sports at 28.
Jacques Rogge. president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) sprung the pleasant surprise on wushu aficionados who had been pushing for the sport to be made an official event.
Chinese President Hu Jintao (right) shakes hands with IOC President Jacques Rogge in Nanjing. East China`s Jiangsu Province October 12. 2005. [Xinhua]
``There will be a wushu competition during the Olympic Games. It`s not going to be one of the official 28 sports but we will organize with BOCOG (the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad) a wushu competition.`` said Rogge at the opening ceremony of the Sixth Art Exhibition of Sports in China in Nanjing yesterday morning.
When Beijing won the right to host the 2008 Games. proponents wanted wushu. one of the traditional sports in China to be listed as an Olympic sport for the home Games. The IOC turned down the proposal but kept the door open for it to be a representation sport.
But Rogge did not clarify if wushu will be regarded as a demonstration sport like taekwondo and tennis. which were earlier demonstration sports and have now become official events at Olympic Games.
While medals will be awarded for demonstration sports. they will not count towards the official tally of nations.
In 2002. the IOC decided to cap the number of Olympic sports at 28.
Shaolin Kungfu shoule be proteced
Chinese Shaolin kungfu .which has the very good reputation for its Chinese characteristic .will declare the human and nonmaterial culture inheritance of United Nations .
Shaolin will declare for the 3th nonmaterial inheritance representative of United Nations and summit the candidate files to the department concerned in the United Nations.
Mr. Shiyongxin. the Buddhist abbot of Shaolin Temple think it is very rare chance to the Shaolin Kungfu. if the Declaration were success. Shaolin Kungfu will rebuild up its position and prove that Shaolin Temple is the real resource of Shaolin Kungfu.
Shaolin Kungfu has 1.500 years history .Since these years .Shaolin Kungfu had from a integrated system. which full of Chinese ChanWu culture .On the basic of Shaolin Temple??s record . Shaolin Kungfu totally had 708 sets. many Taolu are well know by people.
Monks from Shaolin Temple. which is famous for martial arts. perform at a news conference for the launch of `The Stars of Chinese Kongfu Contest` in Beijing. China March 30. 2006. 108 contestants well-versed in the art of kungfu will be then chosen to act in the teleplay `Shaolin Temple`.
China Kongfu instructor trains foreign forces
Members of Macedonian army special forces ``Wolf`` smash bricks on the back of their Chinese instructor at the army base in Skopje April 20. 2006. The Chinese instructor and a captain of the China Liberation Army. both of whom spent 15 years in a Shaolin temple. have been training members of the Macedonian special forces for the last six months.
Dragon Boat Festival
There are many legends about the evolution of the festival, the most popular of which is in commemoration of Qu Yuan (340-278 BC). Qu Yuan was minister of the State of Chu and one of China’s earliest poets. In face of great pressure from the powerful Qin State, he advocated enriching the country and strengthening its military forces so as to fight against the Qin. However, he was opposed by aristocrats headed by Zi Lan, and later deposed and exiled by King Huai. In his exiled days, he still cared much for his country and people and composed immortal poems including Li Sao (The Lament), Tian Wen (Heavenly Questions) and Jiu Ge (Nine Songs), which had far-reaching influences. In 278 BC, he heard the news that Qin troops had finally conquered Chu’s capital, so he finished his last piece Huai Sha (Embracing Sand) and plunged himself into the Miluo River, clasping his arms to a large stone. The day happened to be the 5th of the 5th month in the Chinese lunar calendar. After his death, the people of Chu crowded to the bank of the river to pay their respects to him. The fishermen sailed their boats up and down the river to look for his body. People threw into the water zongzi (pyramid-shaped glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in reed or bamboo leaves) and eggs to divert possible fish or shrimp from attacking his body. An old doctor poured a jug of reaglar wine (Chinese liquor seasoned with realgar) into the water, hoping to turn all aquatic beasts drunk. That’s why people later followed the customs such as dragon boat racing, eating zongzi and drinking realgar wine on that day.
Dragon boat racing is an indispensable part of the festival, held all over the country. As the gun is fired, people will see racers in dragon-shaped canoes pulling the oars harmoniously and hurriedly, accompanied by rapid drums, speeding toward their destination. Folk tales say the game originates from the activities of seeking Qu Yuan’s body, but experts, after painstaking and meticulous research, conclude that dragon boat racing is a semi-religious, semi-entertaining program from the Warring States Period (475-221 BC). In the following thousands of years, the game spread to Japan, Vietnam and Britain as well as China’s Taiwan and Hong Kong. Now dragon boat racing has developed into an aquatic sports item which features both Chinese tradition and modern sporting spirit. In 1980, it was listed into the state sports competition programs and has since been held every year. The award is called ’’Qu Yuan Cup.’’
Zongzi is an essential food of the Dragon Boat Festival. It is said that people ate them in the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC). In early times, it was only glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in reed or other plant leaves and tied with colored thread, but now the fillings are more diversified, including jujube and bean paste, fresh meat, and ham and egg yolk. If time permits, people will soak glutinous rice, wash reed leaves and wrap up zongzi themselves. Otherwise, they will go to shops to buy whatever stuff they want. The custom of eating zongzi is now popular in North and South Korea, Japan and Southeast Asian nations. On Dragon Boat Festival, parents also need to dress their children up with a perfume pouch. They first sew little bags with colorful silk cloth, then fill the bags with perfumes or herbal medicines, and finally string them with silk threads. The perfume pouch will be hung around the neck or tied to the front of a garment as an ornament. They are said to be able to ward off evil.
Tu Mingde meets Australian guest
(BEIJING, May 23) -- Tu Mingde, assistant to the president of the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad (BOCOG) met with visiting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Australian Trade Commission (Austrade) Peter O'Byrne on Tuesday.
The two sides exchanged views on the business promotion activities in Beijing during the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.
A statutory agency within the Foreign Affairs and Trade portfolio, the commission helps Australian companies to enter and develop international markets, by providing advice, market intelligence and support to them.
The Austrade organized a number of business promotions on the occasion of the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games. For instance, it invited foreign companies to watch the Olympic competitions together with their Australian counterparts, or hosted parties or gatherings during or after the Games.
The two sides exchanged views on the business promotion activities in Beijing during the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.
A statutory agency within the Foreign Affairs and Trade portfolio, the commission helps Australian companies to enter and develop international markets, by providing advice, market intelligence and support to them.
The Austrade organized a number of business promotions on the occasion of the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games. For instance, it invited foreign companies to watch the Olympic competitions together with their Australian counterparts, or hosted parties or gatherings during or after the Games.
Olympic Ruyi issued in Beijing (photo attached)
.jpg)
A lady was displaying an "Olympic Ruyi (a type of S-shaped traditional Chinese ornamental object and a symbol of good luck)" in Beijing May 24, 2007. Beijing issued 6,008 pieces of "Olympic Ruyi" studded with Olympic icons to commemorate the forthcoming 2008 Beijing Olympic Games on May 24.
BOCOG attaches importance to one-year countdown
(BEIJING, May 24) -- The activities to mark the one-year countdown to the Beijing Olympic Games was a key topic at the 82nd meeting of the Executive Board of the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad (BOCOG) on Thursday.
The meeting heard a report on the draft of the celebrations of the countdown, and noted that the countdown is the most important milestone date in the preparatory work for the Olympics. The celebrations should be held in an extensive and magnificent style and in an enthusiastic and festive atmosphere. They should have both national characteristics and an international flavor. They will send Beijing's messages to warmly welcome the guests from all over the globe and showcase the Chinese people's understanding and pursuit of the Olympic spirit. Through the celebrations, the people across the nation will be mobilized to fulfill the Olympic preparations, while the attention of the nation and the world will be attracted to the forthcoming Olympics.
The meeting noted that the celebrations should also highlight the conviction of the Chinese government and people in the success of the Games through their united efforts, the rising passion of all walks of life to participate in, support and contribute to the Games, as well as the festive atmosphere of the nation to look forward to the successful Olympic Games.
The meeting also listened to a proposal to open the central area of the Olympic Green and the Olympic Forest Park to the public, and dealt with other matters.
The meeting was chaired by BOCOG President Liu Qi, who is also member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and secretary of Beijing Municipal CPC Committee.
Present at the meeting was also Chen Zhili, State Councilor and BOCOG First Vice-President.
The meeting heard a report on the draft of the celebrations of the countdown, and noted that the countdown is the most important milestone date in the preparatory work for the Olympics. The celebrations should be held in an extensive and magnificent style and in an enthusiastic and festive atmosphere. They should have both national characteristics and an international flavor. They will send Beijing's messages to warmly welcome the guests from all over the globe and showcase the Chinese people's understanding and pursuit of the Olympic spirit. Through the celebrations, the people across the nation will be mobilized to fulfill the Olympic preparations, while the attention of the nation and the world will be attracted to the forthcoming Olympics.
The meeting noted that the celebrations should also highlight the conviction of the Chinese government and people in the success of the Games through their united efforts, the rising passion of all walks of life to participate in, support and contribute to the Games, as well as the festive atmosphere of the nation to look forward to the successful Olympic Games.
The meeting also listened to a proposal to open the central area of the Olympic Green and the Olympic Forest Park to the public, and dealt with other matters.
The meeting was chaired by BOCOG President Liu Qi, who is also member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and secretary of Beijing Municipal CPC Committee.
Present at the meeting was also Chen Zhili, State Councilor and BOCOG First Vice-President.
One World, One Dream
One world. One dream. In the coming years. even for decades to come. the four simple English words will be closely. unmistakably linked to the Summer Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games that Beijing will be hosting in 2008.
``One world. One dream`` is the slogan for the Beijing 2008 Games. It was announced at a grand ceremony held in the Chinese capital this evening and was broadcast live on CCTV and Beijing TV. the country`s two heavyweight broadcasters.
Immediately after the announcement made by Li Changchun. member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee. a big round of applauses echoed in the Beijing Workers` Indoor Arena. where the ceremony was held.
A promotional video for the Beijing Olympic Games slogan was shown at giant screens erected in the indoor arena. A jubilant mood filled the air. and festive art performances by Chinese and foreign artists followed. China Mobile. one of the official partners for Beijing 2008. sent the slogan. in the form of a short message. to all its subscribers across China only minutes after the slogan was announced.
More than 6.000 guests were present at the slogan announcement ceremony. among whom were Liu Qi. president of the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad (BOCOG). and BOCOG First Vice-President Chen Zhili. and representatives from different walks of life. including Beijing-based foreign dignitaries.
```One world. One dream` is an embodiment of the wisdom of hundreds of thousands of people.`` BOCOG President Liu Qi said in his address. ``It is a slogan that conveys the lofty ideal of people in Beijing as well as in China to share the global community and civilization and to create a bright future hand in hand with people from the rest of the world. It expresses the firm belief of a great nation. with a long history of 5.000 years and on its way towards modernization. that is committed to peaceful development. harmonious society and people`s happiness. It voices the aspirations of 1.3 billion Chinese people to contribute to the establishment of a peaceful and bright world.``
``The Olympic Games are unique in their ability to attract the world`s attention. using sport to promote peace and understanding. The IOC is delighted that BOCOG`s slogan for the 2008 Olympic Games has captured that Olympic spirit.`` IOC President Jacques Rogge said in a letter of congratulations to BOCOG.
BOCOG issued a call for the slogan on January 1. 2005. and the response was unexpectedly good. By the deadline at 17:30 on January 31. 2005. the office for the Solicitation of Slogans for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games received at least 210.000 entries of slogans that people sent in by 10.123 emails and 10.038 letters.
The letters and emails came from all over the world. including all the provinces and autonomous regions on the Chinese mainland. Hong Kong and Macau Special Administrative Regions and Taiwan.as well as the United States. Great Britain. France. Japan. the Republic of Korea. Cuba. Norway. Brazil and many other countries and regions. Most of the slogans submitted are in Chinese. some are in English. French and Spanish.
After the deadline. BOCOG invited experts in the Olympic studies. sociology. sports. culture and linguistics to evaluate. pre-select. preview all the submissions based on the pre-set standards and in line with the principles of equality and fairness. The finalized slogan is the outcome of collective wisdom.
The slogan Beijing used during its bid campaign was ``New Beijing. Great Olympics``. It has successfully helped the world to recognize that Beijing. a city with a history of more than 3.000 years and at the heart of China`s splendid culture. is also one of the fastest modernizing cities in the world. The new slogan shifted the focus from the city itself to the three concepts of 2008 Games (namely. Green Olympics. Hi-tech Olympics and People`s Olympics) and the universal values of the Olympic Movement.
Games organizers have increasingly used Olympic slogans as an important platform to launch their communications campaigns. Slogans from past Games. such as ``Share the Spirit`` of the 2000 Sydney Games. and ``Light the Fire Within`` of the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Games. have caught people`s imagination and inspired millions around the world. ``Welcome Home`` also became a highlight during the Athens Games last summer and was a source of boundless pride for Greeks.
Every emblem of the Olympics tells a story. The Beijing 2008 Olympic Games emblem ``Chinese Seal. Dancing Beijing`` is filled with Beijing`s hospitality and hopes. and carries the city`s commitment to the world.
Milestone
``Dancing Beijing`` is a milestone of the Olympics. It serves as a classic chapter of the Olympic epic inscribed by the spirit of the Chinese nation. calligraphed by the deeper import of the ancient civilization. and molded by the character of Cathay`s descendents. It is concise yet deep inside. bringing forth the city`s gradual changes and development. It appears dignified yet bears a tune of romance. reflecting the nation`s thoughts and emotions.
In the lead up to the Beijing 2008 Olympics. the emblem will attract more and more people from around the world to Beijing and China to join the great celebration with the Chinese people.
Commitment
``Dancing Beijing`` is a Chinese Seal. It is engraved with commitment made to the Olympic Movement by a country that has 56 ethnic groups and a population of 1.3 billion. While witnessing the advocacy of the Olympic Spirit by a nation with both ancient civilization and modern culture. it also unfolds a future-oriented city`s pursuit of the Olympic Ideal.
It is a symbol of trust and an expression of self confidence. standing for the solemn yet sacred promise that Beijing - the host city of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games - has made to the world and to all mankind.
``Complete sincerity can affect even metal and stone (literally meaning sincerity smoothes the way to success).`` The inception of our ancestors` wisdom and the image of a seal made of metal and stone allow the emblem to present Chinese people`s respect and honesty for the Olympics.
The moment we earnestly imprint the emblem with the ``Chinese seal``. Beijing is about to show the world a grand picture of ``peace. friendship. and progress of mankind`` and to strike up the passionate movement of ``faster. higher. and stronger`` for mankind.
Image
``Dancing Beijing`` serves as the city`s foremost appearance. It is an image that shows the eastern ways of thinking and the nation`s lasting appeal embodied in the Chinese characters. It is an expression that conveys the unique cultural quality and elegance of Chinese civilization.
With inspiration from the traditional Chinese art form ??C calligraphic art. the character ``Jing`` (the latter of the city`s name) is developed into the form of a dancing human being. reflecting the ideal of a ``New Olympics``. The words ``Beijing 2008`` also resembles the vivid shapes of Chinese characters in handwriting. voicing in concise strokes of the countless feelings Chinese people possess towards the Olympics.
As people ponder on the rich connotations and charms of these Chinese characters. a ``New Beijing`` has thus been brought forward.
Beauty
``Dancing Beijing`` is a favorite color of the Chinese people. The colour ``red`` is intensively used in the emblem. hushing the passion up to a new level. It carries Chinese people`s longing for luck and happiness and their explanation of life.
Red is the color of the Sun and the Holy Fire. representing life and a new beginning. Red is mind at ease. symbol of vitality. and China`s blessing and invitation to the world.
Hero
``Dancing Beijing`` calls upon heroes. Olympic Games functions as the stage where heroes are made known. miracles created and glories earned. and where every participant constitutes an indispensable part of the occasion.
The powerful and dynamic design of the emblem is a life poem written by all participants with their passion. affections. and enthusiasm. It is an oath every participant takes to contribute power and wisdom to the Olympics.
The emblem cheers for arts and for the Olympic heroes. who pass down the essence of the Olympic Spirit. which well connects sports and cultures.
Spirit
``Dancing Beijing`` extends the totem of the Chinese nation. The form of a running human being stands for the beauty and magnificence of life. Its graceful curves are like the body of a wriggling dragon. relating the past and future of one same civilization; they are like rivers. carrying the century-old history and the nation`s pride; they are like veins. pulsing with vitality of life.
The intrinsic values of sports ??C athlete-centered and people-oriented ??C are well defined and upgraded in an artistic way in ``the dance of Beijing.`` We sing if words fail to explain it all. and we dance if the singing does not explicitly tell the meaning.
Vigorous Beijing is looking forward to the cerebration in 2008 and the Olympics wait all mankind to dance together.
Invitation
``Dancing Beijing`` is a kind invitation. The open arms in the emblem say that China is opening its arms to welcome the rest of the world to join the Olympics. a celebration of ``peace. friendship and progress of mankind.``
``Is it not a joy to have friends come from afar?`` The idiom portraits the feelings of friendly and hospitable Chinese people and expresses the sincerity of the city.
Come to Beijing. take a good look at the historical heritages of China`s Capital city. and feel the pulse of the country`s modernization;
Come. share every piece of its joy. and experience the vigor of the country;
Come. and let us together weave a peaceful and wonderful dream.
Milestone
``Dancing Beijing`` is a milestone of the Olympics. It serves as a classic chapter of the Olympic epic inscribed by the spirit of the Chinese nation. calligraphed by the deeper import of the ancient civilization. and molded by the character of Cathay`s descendents. It is concise yet deep inside. bringing forth the city`s gradual changes and development. It appears dignified yet bears a tune of romance. reflecting the nation`s thoughts and emotions.
In the lead up to the Beijing 2008 Olympics. the emblem will attract more and more people from around the world to Beijing and China to join the great celebration with the Chinese people.
Commitment
``Dancing Beijing`` is a Chinese Seal. It is engraved with commitment made to the Olympic Movement by a country that has 56 ethnic groups and a population of 1.3 billion. While witnessing the advocacy of the Olympic Spirit by a nation with both ancient civilization and modern culture. it also unfolds a future-oriented city`s pursuit of the Olympic Ideal.
It is a symbol of trust and an expression of self confidence. standing for the solemn yet sacred promise that Beijing - the host city of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games - has made to the world and to all mankind.
``Complete sincerity can affect even metal and stone (literally meaning sincerity smoothes the way to success).`` The inception of our ancestors` wisdom and the image of a seal made of metal and stone allow the emblem to present Chinese people`s respect and honesty for the Olympics.
The moment we earnestly imprint the emblem with the ``Chinese seal``. Beijing is about to show the world a grand picture of ``peace. friendship. and progress of mankind`` and to strike up the passionate movement of ``faster. higher. and stronger`` for mankind.
Image
``Dancing Beijing`` serves as the city`s foremost appearance. It is an image that shows the eastern ways of thinking and the nation`s lasting appeal embodied in the Chinese characters. It is an expression that conveys the unique cultural quality and elegance of Chinese civilization.
With inspiration from the traditional Chinese art form ??C calligraphic art. the character ``Jing`` (the latter of the city`s name) is developed into the form of a dancing human being. reflecting the ideal of a ``New Olympics``. The words ``Beijing 2008`` also resembles the vivid shapes of Chinese characters in handwriting. voicing in concise strokes of the countless feelings Chinese people possess towards the Olympics.
As people ponder on the rich connotations and charms of these Chinese characters. a ``New Beijing`` has thus been brought forward.
Beauty
``Dancing Beijing`` is a favorite color of the Chinese people. The colour ``red`` is intensively used in the emblem. hushing the passion up to a new level. It carries Chinese people`s longing for luck and happiness and their explanation of life.
Red is the color of the Sun and the Holy Fire. representing life and a new beginning. Red is mind at ease. symbol of vitality. and China`s blessing and invitation to the world.
Hero
``Dancing Beijing`` calls upon heroes. Olympic Games functions as the stage where heroes are made known. miracles created and glories earned. and where every participant constitutes an indispensable part of the occasion.
The powerful and dynamic design of the emblem is a life poem written by all participants with their passion. affections. and enthusiasm. It is an oath every participant takes to contribute power and wisdom to the Olympics.
The emblem cheers for arts and for the Olympic heroes. who pass down the essence of the Olympic Spirit. which well connects sports and cultures.
Spirit
``Dancing Beijing`` extends the totem of the Chinese nation. The form of a running human being stands for the beauty and magnificence of life. Its graceful curves are like the body of a wriggling dragon. relating the past and future of one same civilization; they are like rivers. carrying the century-old history and the nation`s pride; they are like veins. pulsing with vitality of life.
The intrinsic values of sports ??C athlete-centered and people-oriented ??C are well defined and upgraded in an artistic way in ``the dance of Beijing.`` We sing if words fail to explain it all. and we dance if the singing does not explicitly tell the meaning.
Vigorous Beijing is looking forward to the cerebration in 2008 and the Olympics wait all mankind to dance together.
Invitation
``Dancing Beijing`` is a kind invitation. The open arms in the emblem say that China is opening its arms to welcome the rest of the world to join the Olympics. a celebration of ``peace. friendship and progress of mankind.``
``Is it not a joy to have friends come from afar?`` The idiom portraits the feelings of friendly and hospitable Chinese people and expresses the sincerity of the city.
Come to Beijing. take a good look at the historical heritages of China`s Capital city. and feel the pulse of the country`s modernization;
Come. share every piece of its joy. and experience the vigor of the country;
Come. and let us together weave a peaceful and wonderful dream.
Jet Li Trivia
Jet Li was a martial art world champion several times. He started training at the Beijing martial art academy at age eight. and won five gold medals in the Chinese championships. In his teens. he was already a national coach. and before he was 20. he had starred in his first movie: Shaolin Temple (1979). which started the 1980s Kung-Fu boom in mainland China. He first attempt at directing. ``Born to Defend``(1986). met with failure. He is the biggest Asian movie star after Jackie Chan. He relocated to Hong Kong. where he was the biggest star of the early 1990s Kung-Fu
Trivia
Won Chinese national championship in the acrobatic martial art wushu when he was 11; his prize was a trip to Washington D.C. to meet President Richard Nixon.
He studies English with a tutor for 4 hours a day.
Jet & wife Nina Li Chi became parents to a 6 lb. 13 oz. daughter. Jane. [19 April 2000]
Was originally cast in the role of the character Li Mu Bai in Ang Lee`s martial arts blockbuster Wo hu cang long (2000) (Crouching Tiger. Hidden Dragon). but turned it down. The decision was prompted by a promise to his wife Nina Li Chi that he would not work while she was pregnant). The role of Li Mu Bai went to actor Yun-Fat Chow. Li said this himself during an appearance on the Tonight Show promoting ``Kiss of the Dragon.``
Other than providing voice-overs for Kit Yun in Rise to Honor (2003) (VG). he also did the motion-capture for his fight scenes.
Injured his foot while escaping the tsunami that followed a 9.0 earthquake in the Indian Ocean. Li and his four year old daughter were on vacation in the Maldives on December 26th. 2004. The two were in the lobby of their hotel when the wave came ashore. Scooping up his daughter and running for higher ground. a piece of furniture hit his foot. causing the injury.
Has claimed his upcoming martial arts film Hua Yuenjia (Fearless) will be his last martial arts movie. and that he will concentrate on other matters in the future. One of those matters is apparently a documentary about Buddhism.
His Mandarin name is Li Lianjie. His Cantonese name is Lei Lin-Git (or Lee Lin-Kit).
Trivia
Won Chinese national championship in the acrobatic martial art wushu when he was 11; his prize was a trip to Washington D.C. to meet President Richard Nixon.
He studies English with a tutor for 4 hours a day.
Jet & wife Nina Li Chi became parents to a 6 lb. 13 oz. daughter. Jane. [19 April 2000]
Was originally cast in the role of the character Li Mu Bai in Ang Lee`s martial arts blockbuster Wo hu cang long (2000) (Crouching Tiger. Hidden Dragon). but turned it down. The decision was prompted by a promise to his wife Nina Li Chi that he would not work while she was pregnant). The role of Li Mu Bai went to actor Yun-Fat Chow. Li said this himself during an appearance on the Tonight Show promoting ``Kiss of the Dragon.``
Other than providing voice-overs for Kit Yun in Rise to Honor (2003) (VG). he also did the motion-capture for his fight scenes.
Injured his foot while escaping the tsunami that followed a 9.0 earthquake in the Indian Ocean. Li and his four year old daughter were on vacation in the Maldives on December 26th. 2004. The two were in the lobby of their hotel when the wave came ashore. Scooping up his daughter and running for higher ground. a piece of furniture hit his foot. causing the injury.
Has claimed his upcoming martial arts film Hua Yuenjia (Fearless) will be his last martial arts movie. and that he will concentrate on other matters in the future. One of those matters is apparently a documentary about Buddhism.
His Mandarin name is Li Lianjie. His Cantonese name is Lei Lin-Git (or Lee Lin-Kit).
Daniel Wu
Wu Yin-jo was born in San Francisco in 1974. He majored in Architecture in university. After his graduation in 1997. he was discovered whilst traveling in HK and began modeling part-time.Wu is a martial arts enthusiast. and has trained in martial arts since his childhood. After Wu met Jackie Chan. he was introduced to his agent Willie Chan and soon embarked on a career in film. Wu`s first film role was in Yon Fan`s Bishonen. and he also participated in City of Glass and Beijing Rocks both directed by Mable Cheung. Subsequently. he appeared a number of high-grossing blockbusters. including Gorgeous. Gen X Cops. Purple Storm. and 2000 AD. In 2001. he once again collaborated with director Yon Fan in Peony Pavilion adapted from the novel of the same name. Wu`s chiseled good looks and his serious attitude have secured him a unique place within a new generation of onscreen leading men. Wu`s film credits also include Young and Dangerous: The Prequel. Headlines. Cop on a Mission. Hit Team. Born Wild. Princess D. Love Undercover. The Peeping and Beauty and The Breast.
Jet Li
Date of Birth: 26 April. 1963 Height:169cm Weight: 66kg Jet Li was a martial art world champion several times. He started training at the Beijing martial art academy at age eight. and won five gold medals in the Chinese championships. In his teens. he was already a national coach. and before he was 20. he had starred in his first movie: Shaolin Temple (1979). which started the 1980s Kung-Fu boom in mainland China. He first attempt at directing. ``Born to Defend``(1986). met with failure. He is the biggest Asian movie star after Jackie Chan. He relocated to Hong Kong. where he was the biggest star of the early 1990s Kung-Fu boom as well.
Zhang Ziyi-Trivia
Was ranked 2nd of the 100 Sexiest Women by FHM Taiwan (2001).
Was named one of the 25 Hottest Stars Under 25 by Teen People Magazine (2001).
Was named one of the 25 Hottest Stars Under 25 by Teen People Magazine (2002).
Attended the China Central Drama College. studying Dance.
Spokesmodel for: Maybelline (cosmetics). Pantene (shampoo). Coca-Cola Asia. Former Spokesmodel for Tag Heuer (watches). 2% (Korean mineral water). Lenovo Computers.
Spokesmodel of Maybelline (cosmetics).
Former Spokesmodel of 2% (Korean mineral water).
Spokesmodel of Pantene shampoo.
Spokesperson for Coca-Cola (Asia)
Former spokesperson for Lenovo Computers.
Family includes: Li Zhousheng (mom). Zhang Yuanxiao (dad) & Zhang Zinan (older brother)
Forbes magazine`s China edition recently ranked her the second most popular celebrity after NBA player `Yao Ming` . [August 2004]
[September 2004] Taking lessons to improve her English.
Her father is an economist and her mother is a kindergarten teacher.
Ranked #91 in Stuff magazine`s ``102 Sexiest Women In The World`` (2002)
Born on the same day as actress `Vicki Abashkin` .
Joined the Beijing Dance College at 11 & the Beijing Dance Academy at 15.
Is one of 112 invitees to join AMPAS in 2005.
Named by Entertainment Weekly in their `The Must List` 2005. Listed 38th out of the 122 people and things the magazine ``loves`` this year. Ziyi was the only Chinese to be included.
Selected by ``Southern People Weekly`` magazine as `Chinese Top Ten Leaders Of The Younger Generation` in 2005.
Listed in People Magazine`s `50 Most Beautiful People` List in 2005.
Was listed in ``Time Magazines`` World`s 100 Most Influential People. They called her ``China`s Gift to Hollywood``.
Was ranked one of the `100 Most Beautiful Women in the World` in the July 2005 issue of Harpers & Queen magazine. It was her first time on the list. She was ranked number 15.
Personal quotes:
``In China. we don`t consider someone truly beautiful until we have known them for a long time. and we know what`s underneath the skin.``
After Crouching Tiger (Wo hu cang long (2000)). there was a big change for me. with all the attention thrust upon me. I got lot of work: my first Hollywood film. Rush Hour 2 (2001). and a lot of advertisements in Asia. I think for me it`s a very good part of my life. I`ve been lucky. because I`ve had great characters to play. Now I really want to work with good directors.
You know. I never think I can become an actress. But it happened. Not because I dreamed it. but because it happened.
It`s my first time in a lead and I have to speak English! In a Japanese accent! [on Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)].
It was so hard working for him. but I like the challenge. We don`t learn the script. every day we had to. erm ... improvise. [on working with Wong Kar-wai in `2046`]
``For Western women. it`s much easier to be yourself. If you want to do something. you just go and do it. In an Asian context. women are still much more modest and conservative. I want. through my roles. to express the parts in the hearts of Chinese women that they feel unable to let out.``
Chinese women are much more modest than American women when it comes to clothes. We tend to show less flesh.
I`ve discovered that I value simplicity above all in dressing. I don`t like anything I wear to be too complicated or fussy.
``Even though I`ve done Hollywood films. I still don`t think of myself as a Hollywood actress.``
``I always think it`s really hard if you are Asian or Chinese to be really in Hollywood. There are not so many really great characters for you. I always think you are lucky to get offered [something like] `Memoirs of a Geisha`. but I don`t think it will happen all the time.``
Foreigners learn Kongfu
Twenty-five Swiss pratice Shaolin Kongfu at the Southern Shaolin Temple in Quanzhou. East China`s Fujian Province Their Kongfu course will last one week.
Shaolin Temple recruits novice monks
A Buddhist monk shaves the head of a man to prepare him for a ceremony to be ordained as a monk at the Shaolin Temple in Songshan, central China's Henan Province, May 25, 2007. A total of 600 men became Shaolin monks after going through 28 days' Buddhist discipline.
<Abbot Shi Yongxin attends the ordination ceremony to recruit novice Buddhist monks at the Shaolin Temple in Songshan, central China's Henan Province, May 25, 2007. A total of 600 men became Shaolin monks after going through 28 days' Buddhist discipline.
Shaolin Kong-fu performances attract visitors(1)
Shaolin martial monks practise Kong-fu on a wall of embossments depicting martial arts moves at the Shaolin Temple in Dengfeng, central China's Henan Province, May 10, 2007.
Visitors pose with a Shaolin monk for a photo at the Shaolin Temple in Dengfeng, central China's Henan Province, May 10, 2007
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)