Tradition vs superstition when sweeping tombs

On Tomb Sweeping Day which usually falls in early April, people pay respects to departed family members.

Paying homage to departed souls is a tradition, but some people indulge in unusual practices during the festival. Some read from Buddhist scriptures or burn incense sticks to invoke the Buddha to redeem the souls of their dead family members. A few even set off firecrackers to ward off evil spirits.

Besides, it is not uncommon to see people burning paper money on pavements and street corners, which pollute the environment and disturb pedestrians. And it is more than just paper money that they burn to "please" their ancestors. Villas, car and smartphone models made of paper are popular choices with some people, with a few even offering Viagra to the departed souls.