Chinese supernatural beings explained, a 30kg weight loss journey: 7 Lifestyle highlights
From a Chinese star’s best actress win at Venice to the rise of Yun-Gui fusion cuisine, here are seven stories from SCMP’s recent reporting
1. Demon, spirit, ghost or monster? How Chinese mythology separates them
According to ancient Chinese legend, the Hungry Ghost Festival is when the gate to the underworld opens, allowing ghosts of the deceased to pass through to the realm of the living.
But not all ancestors have good intentions, and it is not just human souls that take their once-a-year opportunity to visit the earthly dimension.
2. She lost 30kg with help from an online coach. How did she do it?
Ashanthi Nandika, 37, tried the keto and low-carb diets but kept putting the weight she lost back on. Now, she weighs 55kg and can eat whatever she wants.
3. How Chinese star Xin Zhilei, best actress winner at Venice, rose to the top
Xin Zhilei discusses her acting journey, her historic win for The Sun Rises on Us All and what it was like working with Wong Kar-wai.
4. Singapore Airlines’ new safety video vs Cathay Pacific’s. How do they compare?
Singapore Airlines’ new video and Cathay Pacific’s from 2024 both play on local culture to drive home safety messages. Which does it best?
5. Silent Friend: Tony Leung Chiu-wai appears in his first European film
The Hong Kong star of In the Mood for Love and Lust, Caution plays a scientist in one section of Ildiko Enyedi’s three-part botanical film.
6. What is Yun-Gui food, the fusion cuisine taking China by storm?
Once unfamiliar foods from southwest China’s mountainous Yunnan and Guizhou provinces are winning over diners in the country’s major cities.
7. Rare cancer then divorce: entrepreneur’s amazing recovery from rock bottom
A rare bone cancer and his marriage’s end left Douglas Bray in despair. Now, he competes in some of Hong Kong’s toughest fitness events.