China has a tempestuous relationship with beggars. Outlawed in many cities, beggars are often characterized in the Chinese media as “professionals” who have amassed a fortune without working a proper job. But according to one obscure Buddhist holiday observed in China’s southwestern Yunnan province, the presence of beggars is required to provide believers a chance to prove their generosity.

May 17 marked the third month and 28th day of the lunar calendar, the birthday of Ksitigarbha, also known as the bodhisattva of the dwellers of hell. On this day when Yama, the king of hell, throws open his gates and set ghosts free upon the world, it is customary to make offerings to one’s ancestors and to departed spirits.

Also on this day, according to the local tradition of the Bai people in Xiangyun County of Dali Prefecture, it is customary to give to the poor. That’s why this time every year, beggars gather in front of Dongyue Temple as thousands nearby perform traditional rituals, set off fireworks, burn paper money and prepare offerings such as cooked chicken (below) to the dead.

These photographs show what has come to be known on the Chinese internet as a “beggar festival”.

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• Dongguan gangs purposely disfigure victims, send them out as beggars
• Report: Beggars in Guangzhou specifically targeting foreigners