An ancestral worship ceremony honoring Huangdi, also known as the Yellow Emperor, is held on March 31 in Xinzheng, central China's Henan province. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

Thousands of people from around the world gathered Monday for an ancestral worship ceremony honoring Huangdi, or the Yellow Emperor, in Xinzheng, central China's Henan province.

The event attracted overseas Chinese, experts in culture, arts, calligraphy and media, as well as representatives from science and economics. Attendees paid respects to Huangdi, praying for national prosperity and global peace and harmony.

In Chinese mythology, Huangdi is considered the ancestor of the Chinese nation and the founder of Chinese civilization. According to legend, Xinzheng is Huangdi's hometown.

The ceremony included a series of nine rituals: a ceremonial cannon salute, laying of flower baskets, hand purification and incense offering, ancestor worship, the reading of eulogy, hymn singing, musical and dance tributes, and prayers for China's well-being and the harmony of heaven, earth and humanity.

For the sixth consecutive year, the ceremony included an online ancestral worship platform, allowing participants worldwide to join virtually.

Following the ceremony, participants were able to explore Henan's rich cultural heritage and learn about the modern development of the Yellow Emperor's hometown.